New online casino state launches could be stalled for 18 months or more, a panel of gaming industry stakeholders reaffirmed Monday.
Speaking from the New York Stock Exchange building, Sieler said that potential legalization candidates including New York, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Wyoming, Colorado, Maryland, and Maine have all seen efforts defeated this year. She said it could be another 12-to-18 months before these, or any other potential markets, could see political movement. Only seven states have approved real money online casinos since New Jersey inaugurated the legal iGaming market in 20214.
Gambling expansion measures in most states have faced backlash from a wide range of the political spectrum. In New York, labor union concerns about iGaming, along with a delayed licensing of the state’s first-ever downstate commercial casinos, have thwarted iGaming, Sieler said. Sports betting adoption has also benefited from its social aspect. It’s easy to talk about last night’s game, Sieler said Monday, but it’s still more taboo to talk about a night on the slot machines, be it in-person or digitally.With future market launches likely a year or more in the future, gaming stakeholders are turning to improving their existing products.
Hession said this movement does not extend to an upcoming outside corporate acquisition. Panelists noted that gaming M&A activity has slowed since an early flurry following the federal wagering repeal.