Massachusetts is seeking to fill budget gaps by legalizing online casinos, but the proposal faces multiple obstacles, with both the Treasurer and the Governor expressing opposition, casting a shadow over its prospects before 2026. Updates on the legalization of gambling in various US states can be queried through the PASA official website.
Core Proposal: 3 Casinos to Launch iCasino, Tax Rate 15%
State Representative David Muradian's Bill H4431 allows the state's three physical casinos to offer online casino services, with industry revenue taxed at 15%. Muradian states that the proposal would bring illegal online gambling into regulation, creating a safe and transparent market environment, and is estimated to bring up to $200 million annually to the state government.
Opposition Voices: Treasurer and Governor Speak Out
The advancement of this proposal is not going smoothly! State Treasurer Deborah Goldberg has explicitly opposed it, pointing out that the state lottery will launch online services in 2026, and the advertising competition from online casinos could impact the lottery business, "My primary task is to consider the people of Massachusetts." Governor Maura Healey also expresses long-term concerns about gambling's impact on problem gamblers, citing troubling data and urging policymakers to pay attention to this issue. State Senator John Keenan also aligns with the Governor, proposing the "Bettor's Health Bill" to further strengthen sports betting regulation.
Industry Controversy: Tax Revenue vs. Impact on Physical Casinos
The focus of controversy also centers on the impact on revenue! The casino alliance opposing the expansion of online casinos claims that legalization could lead to a $100 million annual tax revenue loss for physical casinos, offsetting gains. Meanwhile, the Treasurer predicts that the newly launched online lottery could profit about $70 million in its first year, potentially reaching $360 million after ten years, casting doubt on the necessity of online casinos. The deadline for the bill's report submission has been extended to March 16, 2026, giving legislators more time to discuss.
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