Rhode Island is on the cusp of embracing online casino gaming, as the state’s legislative journey reaches a critical juncture. In a resounding 57-11 vote, the Rhode Island House has approved a bill to legalize online casinos, with a subsequent passage through the Finance Committee. This legislation, Senate Bill 948 (SB948), is set to redefine the state’s gambling landscape, promising new opportunities and exclusive partnerships.
The Bill’s Provisions:
Age Requirement:
The proposed bill mandates that players must be 21 or older to participate in online casino gaming.
Exclusive Operator Rights:
Bally’s, a prominent player in the gaming industry, will have the exclusive rights to operate online casinos through its Twin River and Twin River-Tiverton properties. International Game Technology (IGT) is set to become the vendor for these operations.
Live Dealers and Simulcast Streaming:
An important addition to the legislation is the requirement for live dealers during gameplay. The games will be streamed via simulcast, providing an immersive and authentic casino experience for players.
Regulatory Framework:
The Rhode Island State Lottery Division of the Department of Revenue will oversee and regulate the online casino gambling product, ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations.
The Road to Legalization:
Senate and House Approval:
Senate Bill 948 gained approval in the Senate with a decisive 30-4 vote, and its counterpart, House Bill 6348, was amended to match its provisions, facilitating a smooth transition through the legislative process.
Governor’s Signature:
The final step in this legislative journey lies in the hands of Governor Daniel McKee, who must sign the bill into law for it to become a reality.
Implications and Benefits:
Economic Impact:
Legalizing online casinos promises significant economic benefits for Rhode Island, including increased revenue streams, job creation, and enhanced competitiveness in the gaming industry.
Consumer Convenience:
With online casinos, Rhode Island residents will enjoy the convenience of playing their favorite table games from the comfort of their homes using computers or mobile apps.
Competitive Advantage:
The exclusive partnership between Bally’s and IGT positions Rhode Island as a pioneering state in the online casino gaming market, potentially attracting players from neighboring states.
The Journey to January 1, 2024:
Implementation Date:
The bill sets January 1, 2024, as the date when online casino gaming will become legal in Rhode Island. This timeline allows for necessary preparations and regulatory adjustments.
Regulatory Oversight:
The State Lottery Division of the Department of Revenue will work diligently to establish a robust regulatory framework, ensuring fair play and player protection.
Rhode Island’s leap into the world of online casinos marks a significant development in the state’s gambling industry. With the passage of Senate Bill 948 and the impending signature of Governor Daniel McKee, the state is poised to unlock economic opportunities, enhance consumer convenience, and take a lead in the online gaming arena. The implementation date of January 1, 2024, is eagerly awaited, as it promises a new era in Rhode Island’s gaming landscape. As the State Lottery Division oversees this transformation, the future looks bright for online casino enthusiasts in the state.