2024 Guide to US iGaming Legal and Regulatory Updates

The 2024 regulatory and legal shifts mark a significant evolution in the U.S. online gambling and sports betting scene, with states such as Vermont, North Carolina, and Rhode Island pioneering new legal landscapes. These changes promise to redefine the industry's standards for security and regulation. Our article delves into these crucial reforms, highlighting their implications for the gambling ecosystem.

Explore the future of online betting with us. Keep reading to grasp the impact of these developments.

Vermont Legalising Online Sports Betting

Vermont's legalisation of online sports betting has opened up new opportunities for enthusiasts in the state. At midnight on January 11, 2024, residents can legally participate in online betting through platforms such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics Sportsbook. The new law, Act 63, was signed by Governor Scott in June 2024, which led to the Department of Liquor and Lottery selecting these operators through a competitive bid process.

The chosen operators are well-established in the industry, offering players a fun and safe environment for mobile sports wagering. This development comes just in time for the NFL Playoffs starting January 13, 2024, and Super Bowl LVIII on February 11, 2024. Fans can place bets on a wide range of international professional and collegiate sports events if they are sanctioned by governing bodies.

In terms of revenue, Vermont is expecting to see an influx of up to $7 million during the first full year of operations. As the market matures, this figure is anticipated to increase to between $15 million and $18 million annually. These funds benefit the state and support necessary safeguards and consumer protections built into the regulatory framework for mobile sports betting.

Customers must be 21 or older to place bets and cannot use credit cards to fund their accounts. The state has implemented these rules to promote safe and responsible gambling behaviour among its residents. For those seeking assistance with problem gambling, the Vermont Gambling Helpline is available 24/7 at 1-800-522-4700 or through the 1-800-GAMBLER text line.

North Carolina Legalising Online Sports Betting

North Carolina is set to legalise online sports betting, with a planned start date of noon on March 11, 2024. In preparation for this launch, the North Carolina State Lottery Commission has issued provisional licenses to seven sports wagering suppliers. These initial licenses, valid for 180 days, mark a significant step towards legalising online sports betting in the state.

Beginning March 1, licensed interactive sports wagering operators holding Certificates of Compliance can start registering players, creating interactive accounts, and accepting deposits. This early registration process allows operators to establish a solid customer base before the state's official launch of sports wagering.

The Lottery Commission has set specific deadlines for applicants to ensure a smooth rollout of sports betting in North Carolina. For instance, January 26 was identified as the deadline for applicants to submit their proposed internal controls for review. Meeting this deadline is crucial for operators to be prepared for the first day of sports betting.

The Lottery Commission approved internal control requirements as vital to ensuring compliance. Each licensed operator must have its internal controls approved before being allowed to offer bets in North Carolina. Applications from nine prospective operators are under review, demonstrating the state's commitment to a well-regulated sports betting industry.

Rhode Island Legalising Online Gambling

Rhode Island's legalisation of online gambling is set to take effect on March 1, 2024, following the 2023 law. This development will see live dealers at Bally's Twin River Casino in Lincoln simulcasting table and slot games to players' phones and laptops. As a result, the state's 1.1 million residents will have more options for wagering, including online poker and casino games alongside the already legal sports betting.

This decision followed the approval of an amended iGaming bill by the Rhode Island Senate. The bill allowed online gambling via simulcast table and slot games from Bally's Twin River casino, granting Bally's Corporation a monopoly on online casino operations within the state. Subsequently, Democratic Governor Daniel McKee signed two bills into law in June 2023, officially making Rhode Island the seventh US state with legally regulated online casino gaming.

The upcoming regulatory and legal changes in 2024 are expected to impact the gambling landscape in Rhode Island. Bally's Casino app will become available for residents, following the example of other US states that have already embraced online gambling. As a result, players will have greater flexibility and convenience in accessing their favourite casino games, generating revenue for the state and creating new opportunities for the gambling industry.

New York Interactive Gaming Bill

In 2024, the state of New York introduced a significant development in its gambling legislation landscape with the New York Interactive Gaming Bill. This bill aimed to authorise interactive gaming in the state, expanding the scope of legal gambling activities for its residents.

The bill's primary focus was amending the Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering and Breeding Law to enable the licensing and regulation of interactive gaming operations. It proposed amendments to Section 1367-a and the addition of a new Article 15, comprising Sections 1500 - 1507, addressing various aspects of implementing interactive gaming in the state.

Article 15 set out clear legislative intent and findings, emphasising responsible gaming and adhering to guidelines outlined in the New York State Constitution. It also provided definitions of various terms associated with interactive gaming, such as "interactive gaming license" and "interactive gaming operator."

The bill outlined specific eligibility criteria for entities to conduct interactive gaming activities. To ensure compliance with established regulations, the bill required entities to obtain appropriate operating licenses, as well as individual, enterprise, and vendor licenses for employees and affiliates.

Interactive gaming operators were also subject to taxation and fees, as stipulated in Section 1506. These included an application fee, annual fees, and an interactive gaming tax to maintain fairness and transparency within the industry.

Lastly, the bill outlined responsible gaming requirements, emphasising player protection and preventing problem gambling. These measures included restrictions on advertising, promoting responsible gambling behaviour, and implementing self-exclusion options for players.

Georgia Sports Betting Bill

The Georgia Sports Betting Bill has been making progress in 2024 as lawmakers work to advance Senate Bill 386, which aims to legalise online sports betting in the state. The bill, introduced by Sen. Clint Dixon, proposes to authorise and provide the regulation and taxation of sports betting in Georgia through the Georgia Lottery. This initiative is expected to generate significant revenue for the state and create new opportunities for betting enthusiasts.

Importantly, the bill sets out provisions for granting a total of 16 online sports betting licences. Of these, eight will be tethered to professional sports franchises or organisations in Georgia, seven will be free-standing licences, and one will be reserved for the Georgia Lottery, which will also act as the regulator for the industry. Such a framework aims to allow for a diverse range of betting operators, promoting healthy competition and consumer choice.

It should be noted that although the Senate has approved the bill, it has also attached a significant amendment. Specifically, the bill now requires a constitutional amendment to be approved by voters in November before it can be enacted. This major tweak ensures that the final decision to bring sports betting to Georgia will be in the hands of its citizens.

Missouri Sports Betting

Missouri Sports Betting could see significant changes in 2024 with the introduction of new regulatory and legal provisions. HB 2331 is a bill that modifies provisions related to gaming, and has garnered support from various stakeholders such as the NFL Players Association, Kansas City Chiefs Football Club, and St. Louis Cardinals.

In January 2024, the bill was introduced and read for the first time in the House. Following a public hearing and several executive sessions, it was reported as "Do Pass", with majority votes throughout the process. Several actions have taken place since then, including being placed back on the Formal Perfection Calendar in March 2024.

The proposed changes in Missouri Sports Betting aim to expand and regulate the market. The bill has been backed by major sports teams, gaming associations, and chambers of commerce in the state, demonstrating its potential positive impact on Missouri's economy and the sports betting landscape. However, it is important to note that there has also been opposition to the bill, with some individuals expressing concern over potential negative consequences.

Regulatory Trends and Challenges

In 2024, the regulatory landscape for online gambling and betting in the USA continues to be complex and varied across states. One of the main challenges operators and players face is the patchwork of state-level regulations that require constant adaptation and monitoring to stay compliant. This increased complexity impacts the industry's ability to grow while maintaining high levels of integrity and player protection.

The focus on responsible gaming and fraud prevention is another regulatory environment trend. As the iGaming industry advances, so do the technologies used to verify player identity and prevent fraudulent activities. Players and operators must be aware of the latest ID verification technologies and measures implemented to combat fraud trends. A combination of strong regulatory oversight and technological advancements can support the industry's drive towards increased security, privacy, and fairness.

Lastly, integrating decentralisation technologies, such as cryptocurrencies, blockchain, and peer-to-peer gaming, presents both opportunities and regulatory challenges for the online gambling and betting industry. These emerging technologies can streamline transactions, increase transparency, and reduce fees, benefiting operators and players. However, they also introduce new regulatory challenges, such as anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) compliance, as well as uncertainty surrounding the legal status of digital assets.

Technological Innovations and Market Dynamics

Technological innovations are transforming the online gambling and betting landscape across the United States in 2024. One notable trend in this space is the rise of crypto and Bitcoin gambling sites, which provide secure and anonymous gambling options to users. Platforms like Lucky Block have been gaining popularity, paving the way for a new generation of online gambling experiences.

Another significant development is the rapid growth of the sports betting market and the role major brands play within it. In November 2023, ESPN launched ESPN BET, which has managed to capture a significant market share within just its first month of operations. This highlights the immense competition and potential for new entrants in the industry.

In response to these technological advancements, the American Gaming Association (AGA) advocates for updates to federal Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. The AGA emphasises the urgent need for regulatory changes at the federal level to keep pace with the evolving online betting landscape.