Will Online Casino Become Legal in Wyoming? Bill Proposal Returns in 2025

04.12.2024

Wyoming Representative Robert Davis has announced plans to reintroduce a bill aimed at legalizing online casinos in the state by 2025. This decision follows the release of positive findings from a Spectrum Gaming Group study, highlighting the potential economic benefits of regulating this industry.

The Numbers Support the Bill

According to the Spectrum Gaming Group, legal online casinos could generate between $93 million and $138 million in revenue during their first year of operation. By the fifth year, these revenues could grow to $199 million, translating into tax revenues for the state ranging from $20 million to $30 million in the first year and up to $40 million by year five.

The study also concluded that online casinos would not negatively impact the revenue streams of existing gambling establishments, including three tribal casinos, three racetracks, and 39 horse racing facilities.

Despite these positive findings, representatives from tribal casinos have expressed concerns about the potential for negative impacts on their businesses.

The Northern Arapaho Tribe conducted its own research, which pointed to potential downsides for their land-based casinos. Representative Davis acknowledges that tribal concerns will be pivotal in discussions around online casino legalization but emphasizes that online and land-based casinos often attract distinct customer groups.

Will Wyoming Legalize Online Casinos in 2025?

The prospects for legalizing online casinos in Wyoming by 2025 appear promising. Representative Davis’s persistence, backed by Spectrum Gaming Group’s research, lends significant weight to the proposal.

Additionally, industry experts like Steve May of GLI and Jeff Ifrah, co-founder of the iDevelopment and Economic Association, advocate for legalization, citing benefits such as enhanced consumer protection and increased tax revenues.

Wyoming already boasts a legal online sports betting market, demonstrating the state’s capability to regulate gambling sectors effectively.

However, tribal perspectives must be carefully considered. Tribal leaders remain skeptical of Spectrum Gaming Group’s findings and have conducted independent research to substantiate their concerns.