Players who reside in the Sunshine State and play online slot games might see more operators pop out in the next several years. According to studies from a research firm, online casino expansion across the US over the next three years are likely to be few.
The only state that has a chance to legalize iGaming would be Florida, the third-largest state by population. This notion is based on the findings of Eilers & Krejcik Gaming (EKG), which stated that the likelihood of US states approving iGaming within their territory for the next couple of years is slim.
They also stated that local legislators in different states would rather consider raising taxes on online sports betting instead of legalizing new gambling activities, such as iGaming.
That said, EKG projected that Florida could be that one state that could consider expanding its gambling sector via iGaming. EKG estimated that in the next three years until 2027, Florida is likely to legalize online gambling.
Florida Online Gambling Legalization Has Opposition
To date, new online sports betting bills are making their way through Florida’s legislation. Namely HB953 and S1404, are proposing to expand the exclusivity of the Seminole Tribe and Hard Rock Bet from sports betting to online gambling.
However, one of the main hurdles of legalizing iGaming comes from the land-based gambling sector. Their main concern stems from the impact online casino games may have on their operations, resulting in a decrease in revenue.
On the other hand, there are still those who are more optimistic of more states approving iGaming in the upcoming years. Supporters of online gambling, namely executives from Caesars, DraftKings, Entertain, and Rush Interactive have made comments implying they believe more states will add online casinos this year or in 2026.
Currently, iGaming is permitted in seven US states. These are Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia. In the event that the Florida legislature green lights online sports books and iGaming within their territory, they will become the latest state that can offer legalized online gambling in the US.
Last Updated on by jonathan r
