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State of Play
- Massachusetts is considering legalizing online casinos, a move that could significantly impact players and operators in the region.
- PENN Entertainment, which runs the state’s Plainridge Park Casino, has shown conditional support for this shift, especially if online sites partner with established land-based casinos.
Massachusetts lawmakers are debating House Bill 4431, which proposes authorizing up to nine online casinos to increase tax revenue and regulate online gambling within the state.
The bill aims to address issues around offshore gambling sites and improve player safety by providing a legal, supervised framework.
Unlike Wynn Resorts, which opposes the bill fearing it might reduce revenue at physical casinos, PENN Entertainment has expressed support for the bill as long as licensing requires online operators to partner with existing land-based casinos like Plainridge Park Casino.
Neighboring states, like Connecticut and Pennsylvania, have already established legal online casino markets, offering a reference for Massachusetts’ potential rollout.
Legal online casinos could move gamblers away from offshore sites
The legalization of online casinos in Massachusetts could mean more secure and regulated gaming options closer to home, reducing reliance on offshore sites. Retail casino operators may see new opportunities to expand their online presence by forming partnerships mandated by the bill.
This approach could boost state tax revenues while preserving the viability of physical casino operations, alleviating some industry concerns. Regulators will gain more control over online gambling activities, improving consumer protections and ensuring fair play.
If passed, Massachusetts could join the growing list of states embracing online casinos, setting new precedents for balancing online and land-based gaming interests.
Based on reporting by Grant Lucas for SportsLine.
