As Governor Josh Shapiro pushes for Pennsylvania to join the Multi-State Internet Gaming Association (MSIGA), the regulated online poker landscape in Pennsylvania is set to undergo significant changes. Following his directive, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) will begin negotiations to join a coalition that includes major players like Michigan, Nevada, and New Jersey.
According to reports, PGCB Communications Director Doug Harbach confirmed this development. Shapiro's move is seen as a key step in integrating Pennsylvania into a thriving network that could expand the player pool and enhance the competitive stance of online poker.
Strategic Advantages for Pennsylvania Joining MSIGA:
Pennsylvania's potential inclusion in MSIGA could have a significant impact on the state and the entire US online poker market. Notably, with a population of nearly 13 million, Pennsylvania is the fifth most populous state in the US. This demographic advantage suggests that Pennsylvania could inject strong momentum into the interstate poker scene, currently dominated by active members like Michigan and New Jersey. Joining MSIGA would not only expand the market for Pennsylvania poker players but also streamline operations for interstate operators like WSOP.com and PokerStars US. This could improve operational efficiency and possibly encourage more states to consider the benefits of regulating online poker.
This development follows legislative efforts by Pennsylvania Representative George Dunbar, whose bill aimed to initiate MSIGA negotiations independently of the governor's directive. Despite some legislative support, Dunbar's bill did not progress and was stalled in committee. Additionally, the poker community has actively pursued Pennsylvania's inclusion in MSIGA, including the notable #GrowPAPoker social media campaign. Such consistent advocacy highlights the community's desire for enhanced liquidity and competitive products, reflecting widespread support for a shared interstate poker network.
Pennsylvania's Current Online Poker Environment:
Compared to states like West Virginia, which have joined MSIGA but have yet to launch online poker, Pennsylvania boasts several active poker platforms, including well-known platforms like PokerStars PA and WSOP PA, as well as BetMGM Poker PA and Borgata Poker PA. These platforms currently operate within the state's regulatory framework, providing a solid foundation that shared liquidity under MSIGA could significantly enhance.
As Pennsylvania moves closer to joining MSIGA, the actual implementation timeline for shared liquidity remains uncertain. However, the state's proactive steps towards this goal demonstrate its firm commitment to strengthening its competitive position in the gaming industry. Meanwhile, the US online poker landscape continues to evolve, with recent changes such as the temporary suspension of Delaware's online poker operations and the anticipated launch of the new platform BetRivers Poker later this year.
