Online gambling has grown increasingly popular since the COVID-19 pandemic caused most physical casinos to close. Sports betting operators in particular have found that bets from across the nation pouring in. Though more states are legalizing it, those residing in states without online gambling legislation risk arrest if they place any bets online.
New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware were among the first states to introduce regulated sports betting. Since their implementation they have seen an influx of wagers and collected millions in taxes from them; but other parts of the US lag behind, with several obstacles impeding progress towards making their own laws in this area.
No one disputes that some states are more resistant than others to legalizing online gaming (iGaming), whether for financial or other reasons. Some may fear the financial upside associated with sports betting while others worry how iGaming would impact physical casinos in their region. But with federal restrictions now lifted and more brick-and-mortar casinos closing, more states are opening their doors to iGaming; it should become increasingly prevalent as more people turn online as their source for casino entertainment.
North Dakota, which generally favors conservative approaches to gambling, has not made any moves to outlaw online casino gambling. Unfortunately, its neighboring states may take more restrictive approaches, making it harder for North Dakota to legalize online casinos early.
Kentucky has long been known to prohibit gambling, yet in recent years lawmakers have taken steps to liberalize it. Riverboat casinos were recently approved and it may soon introduce online forms of gaming as well.
Arkansas recently legalized sports betting, though for now only two licensed operators can operate sportsbooks in the state: DraftKings and FanDuel have received permits to operate sportsbooks in Arkansas; more may be added in future. Arkansas only licensed land-based casino is operated by Cherokee Nation; they could possibly offer online casino gaming first.
Indiana’s iGaming market is relatively small, and has struggled to draw players in. Recently, legislation to add online casinos died due to fears they would harm existing physical casinos; however, this issue will likely resurface next year.