US Internet Gambling Regulations Roundup 2014

Elana K. - January 6, 2015

Legal Politics

The momentum of online gaming from 2013 came to a standstill in 2014; advocates hope that 2015 will have better results.

2014 was a remarkably un-progressive year for online gaming in the US. The three states that had passed legislation in 2013 legalizing various forms of online gaming, New Jersey, Nevada and Delaware, were not joined by any other states the following year. Moreover, the three states did not show the revenues that they had hoped for, which has put quite a damper on US market expectations.

Federal Battles

The issue of online gambling not only came to a standstill at a state-level, but also at a federal level. While there have been initiatives to implement federal legislation, they have been vigorously met by powerful anti-online gambling lobbyists, many of whom represent the interests of land-based casino operators.

Unrealistic Expectations

Proponents of online gambling are realizing that they need to manage their expectations for internet gambling in America. One example of unrealistic expectations happened in New Jersey: Governor Chris Christie’s team had estimated revenue of about $180 million in taxes for the first year of operation; in reality, revenue was only one tenth of that!

There is Still Hope: Americans Are Gambling

In late 2014, NBA Chief Commissioner Adam Silver stated his support for internet sports betting to be regulated at federal level in order to ensure consumer protection. He said that Americans are wagering an estimated $400 billion illegally, and the government should pass legislation in order to protect them.

More Hope: California and PokerStars

Advocates on online gambling are hoping that California will take the plunge in 2015 and legalize online gambling. PokerStars can also be counted on to advocate on behalf of online gambling, as they have stated that US market entry is essential to their corporate growth. PokerStars hopes to enter the New Jersey online gambling market in 2015, in partnership with Atlantic City Resorts Casino. The success of PokerStars in New Jersey could very well determine the success of online gambling across the entire United States in 2015.