Wyoming lawmakers are set to discuss the possibility of expanding the state’s legal gaming industry to include online casino gambling.
House Bill 120, sponsored by Representatives Jon Conrad, Robert Davis, Sandy Newsome, and Tom Walters, proposes the legalization and regulation of iGaming in the state. This initiative follows the successful legalization of sports betting in Wyoming in 2021.
The bill, which was received for introduction on Thursday, seeks to place iGaming under the Wyoming Gaming Commission’s oversight.
Wyoming iGaming Bill Highlights
- Up to five online gaming operator licenses
- Upfront cost of $100,000 per license
- $50,000 renewal fee every five years
- 10% tax rate for all iGaming revenues
- $300,000 per year set aside for problem gambling programs
The bill also proposes that licensed operators will be allowed to partner with operators in other states. This is suggested due to the state’s relatively low population. However, the bill stops short of describing what those partnerships might mean in terms of traffic and player pool sharing.
Other States Working Towards iGaming
Wyoming’s efforts are part of a broader national trend towards the regulation of iGaming. Illinois has House Bill 2239 under consideration. This bill would allow the issuance of iGaming licenses for a $250,000 initial fee. Licensed operators could offer up to three brands, with an annual renewal fee of $100,000.
Hawaii is also evaluating the possibility of legalizing iGaming, with Senate Bill 3376 introduced by Senator Ronald D. Kouchi to create a Gaming Control Commission and legalize sports betting and online poker. This would be a major step forward for the state which has been firmly against gambling in the past.
Meanwhile, in Maryland, Senate Bill 603, introduced by Senator Ron Watson, proposes to legalize iGaming through a public vote in the next election.
Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.