Louisiana lawmakers are actively exploring the regulation of online casinos (iGaming) as a potential option to address the state’s looming budget deficit.
On December 11th, 2024, the Senate Judiciary B and Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committees convened a joint session to discuss the implications of legalizing iGaming within the state. This session stems from Senate Resolution 149, introduced by Senator Kirk Talbot in June, which mandates a comprehensive study on the subject with findings due by March 1st, 2025.
iGaming to Cover Budget Deficit
Louisiana Considers the Legalization of Online CasinosHowever, Senator Talbot emphasized the importance of understanding both the benefits and drawbacks of iGaming, stating,
Louisiana Considers the Legalization of Online Casinos Louisiana Considers the Legalization of Online Casinos are expected to generate $13 billion in annual gaming revenue this year. In contrast, the seven states with regulated iGaming markets are projected to bring in $8 billion in revenue in 2024. Meanwhile, the American Gaming Association stated that Louisiana residents gambled over $4.6 billion at offshore casinos.Light & Wonder Global Head of Government Affairs and Legislative Counsel Howard Glaser told the committee meeting:
Louisiana Considers the Legalization of Online CasinosHowever land-based casino operators are opposed to the move. The Cordish Companies General Counsel Mark Stewart added:
“Over $700m has been invested or committed to move casinos on shore bringing tremendous economic benefits to Louisiana. But we submit that bringing iGaming to Louisiana would pull the rug out from under these projects and discourage additional land-based investment.”
Ronnie Jones, former chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board also noted:
Louisiana Considers the Legalization of Online Casinos“The brick and mortar properties are clearly struggling in some areas and there will be very real questions about cannibalization of their customers.”
Model Internet Gaming Act
Earlier in 2024, the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) introduced a Model Internet Gaming Act to guide states considering iGaming legalization.
Louisiana Considers the Legalization of Online CasinosIt also calls for a complete ban on social and sweepstakes casinos, a move that has already been adopted by several states amid ongoing legal challenges to operators of these sites and most notably VGW who faces 12 lawsuits.
iGaming writer with over a decade of experience in sports betting and online casino reporting.