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Massachusetts online casino bill halted for now
Massachusetts legislators shut down an iGaming bill, which included digital slot machines and blackjack, after unanimously voting to send the bill for study
Massachusetts residents looking to legally wager on online casino games, such as digital slot machines and blackjack, need to hold. On March 16, Massachusetts members of the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies voted 11-0 to send internet gaming bill H. 4431 to a study.
The move essentially ends any hope of online casino games for real money coming to Massachusetts in 2026. However, this determination leaves the possibility of the bill being refiled and passed in the future, which could bring the best online casinos to the Commonwealth.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. David Muradian, sought to legalize and regulate iGaming through the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, granting licenses to existing casino operators to offer online casino-style games like real money online slots.
Muradian stated that Massachusetts residents are already wagering online without any regulatory oversight, and he believes legalizing it is a safer approach.Â
"There are no consumer protections, no responsible gaming standards, and the bill will change that," Muradian said in November's hearing that led to the March vote.Â
However, detractors fear the convenience of iGaming could lead to an increase in gambling addiction.
The bill included measures to halt problem gambling, including a deposit limit of $20,000 in a 24-hour period, as one of its multiple provisions designed to protect consumers. Operators would also be required to monitor for problem gambling behavior.
The state would have generated additional tax revenue as well, with a 15% state tax charged to operators on iGaming gross revenues, according to Boston.com.
iGaming is currently legal in several states, including New Jersey, West Virginia, Michigan, and PA online casinos.
Massachusetts offers both horse racing and online sports betting. It also offers in-person casinos. Massachusetts online sports betting launched in March 2023.
