Massachusetts Eyes Online Casino Expansion with New Bills
Massachusetts is looking to bring online casino gaming into the fold with two recently proposed bills, HD 4084 and SD 2240. These new measures aim to legalize and regulate online games like poker, blackjack, and slots.
What’s in the Bills?
The proposals outline a clear plan to get online casinos up and running in Massachusetts. The state’s Gaming Commission would oversee everything, from licensing to day-to-day operations, ensuring transparency and compliance. Here’s a snapshot of what the bills include:
- Licensing Options: There are two types of licenses up for grabs. Existing casinos can apply for Category 1 licenses, letting them launch up to two online platforms. Businesses without a physical presence can apply for Category 2 licenses, giving them a way into the market. The initial cost is $5 million for a five-year license, with the same fee for renewals.
- Taxes and Fees: A 20% tax rate on gaming revenue is part of the plan, alongside a $1 million yearly fee that would go toward the state’s Public Health Fund. The money would help fund workforce programs and research into the impact of online gaming.
- Quick Start for Operators: To get things moving, operators can apply for temporary licenses for $1 million, letting them launch operations quickly while full applications are being reviewed.
Putting Players First
These bills don’t just focus on the business side. Operators will need to put in place age verification, geolocation tools, and self-exclusion options to encourage responsible gaming. They’ll also need to keep detailed records of bets and report suspicious activity to state regulators.
On top of that, all gaming revenue will go into a new Internet Gaming Fund. Some of the money will support studies on the social and economic effects of online gaming, ensuring the state keeps a close eye on the industry’s impact.
Collaborating Across State Lines
The bills also make room for partnerships with other states. If federal laws allow, Massachusetts could enter agreements to share gaming pools with other jurisdictions. This would make games more competitive and give players more variety.
These bills still have a long way to go before becoming law. They’ll face hearings and committee reviews, and lawmakers will need to strike the right balance between generating revenue and promoting responsible gaming.
However, the early signs are promising, with a growing number of legislators showing interest in tapping into the potential of online casinos.
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