Despite state laws legalizing gambling, many US players are still unable to enjoy real money online slot games. The reasons for this are varied, from legislative barriers to player demand. State legislators may choose to prohibit iGaming entirely, or only regulate specific types of casino games such as sports betting and horse racing. Moreover, local jurisdictions are also unable to pass their own online casino legislation without state approval. As such, the lion’s share of online gambling is regulated by federal law, with only four states currently allowing real-money online casino games: New Jersey, Nevada, Delaware and Pennsylvania.
Several states have passed legislation that would permit online casino games, but these remain stalled due to other priorities. While lawmakers prioritize the more lucrative sports betting industry, some residents have pushed for change by submitting initiatives that could make online casino gaming legal. These efforts have met with mixed success so far.
In 2023, New York is expected to pass legislation that will allow its citizens to gamble on online casinos. However, the legal gambling age in the Big Apple is 21. The introduction of the virtual gambling market in the state will be a boost to New York’s tourism sector. Nevertheless, the minimum age requirement remains an issue that should be addressed before it is possible for New Yorkers to access online slots and other casino games.
Another state that will be introducing its own version of legal online casino games is Illinois. The Prairie State is one of the top gambling destinations in the country, with 12 land-based casinos and a temporary Bally’s mega casino opening this summer. Illinois lawmakers have put forward a number of bills that could see the state introduce its own iGaming offerings in the coming years.
The benefits of a regulated online casino include responsible gambling measures and protections for players. These measures can include deposit limits, time-outs and self-exclusion periods. These measures can help players control their spending habits, as well as provide critical tax revenues for the local community. These taxes can be used for problem gambling non-profits, food banks, charities and healthcare organizations.
There are also a number of advantages for operators who choose to partner with a regulated online casino. These partnerships can be beneficial for both parties, including the chance to leverage the brand and reputation of a large global operator and access additional funding. Additionally, a licensed online casino can offer customers a safe and secure environment, with the chance to win large amounts of money on a regular basis.
The state of New Jersey is a good example of a regulated online casino, with the first legal online casinos opening in 2013. Since then, the New Jersey internet gambling industry has grown exponentially, with monthly revenues exceeding $80 million. This figure is rising year-to-year, and it is expected to continue growing. However, other states that are yet to approve iGaming have remained reluctant to move forward with regulation. This lackadaisical behavior is particularly concerning given that online casino games generate massive revenues.