Wyoming Eyes iGaming Legalization by 2025
### Key Points at a Glance
– Wyoming could legalize iGaming (online gambling) by 2025.
– A 2024 bill failed but is expected to be reintroduced.
– A study shows iGaming could generate significant revenue for the state.
– Wyoming would be one of the few U.S. states with legal online casinos.
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Wyoming Plans a New Push for iGaming Legislation
Wyoming could take a major step toward the legalization of iGaming in 2025. Representative Robert Davis (Republican, District 47) plans to introduce a revised bill that would allow online casinos in the state. Davis had already presented a similar proposal in 2024, but it failed to gain majority support.
The renewed effort is backed by a study commissioned by the Wyoming Gaming Commission (WGC). Conducted by the renowned consulting firm Spectrum Gaming, the study concludes that iGaming could not only generate additional revenue for the state but also avoid negatively impacting existing gambling offerings.
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What the Bill Proposes
The original bill, known as House Bill 0120 (HB0120), outlined clear regulations for iGaming:
– **Oversight by the Wyoming Gaming Commission**
– **Imposition of fees and taxes**
– **Revenue distribution to the state and other entities**
– **Opportunities for tribal operators to participate**
The last point is particularly significant, as some representatives of tribal casinos have expressed concerns about iGaming. However, the bill explicitly offered pathways for these operators to be integrated into the online gambling market.
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Why Wyoming is an Interesting Prospect for iGaming
Currently, only seven U.S. states allow online casinos, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. Wyoming could join this small group despite being the least populous state in the U.S.
Looking at other small states like Delaware and Rhode Island, it’s clear that less populous regions can also successfully operate iGaming. If Wyoming passes the legislation, it could signal to other states that similar steps are feasible.
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Potential Revenue from iGaming
Wyoming is one of the few U.S. states without an income tax. Its primary revenue sources are taxes on mineral rights, energy production, and sales taxes. An additional revenue stream like iGaming could therefore be particularly appealing.
According to the Spectrum Gaming study, iGaming could generate between $93 million and $138 million in total wagers during its first year. By the fifth year, these figures could grow to as much as $199 million. For the state, this would mean annual additional revenue of $20 million to $30 million, potentially rising to $40 million by 2029.
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Our Assessment
The potential legalization of iGaming in Wyoming is an exciting development that could benefit both the state and the gambling industry. Despite its small population, the study shows that iGaming could be a lucrative endeavor.
If Wyoming passes the bill, it could encourage other states to take similar steps. For players and operators, this would be a win-win situation, creating new opportunities for entertainment and revenue.