Wyoming Online Casino Bill Proposes Multi-State Poker
Wyoming lawmakers have proposed a new bill to legalize online casino games and poker within the Blue Sky State. HB 120, introduced by Representative Bob Davis (R), has been supported by three fellow Republicans in the Wyoming House: Rep. Jon Conrad, Rep. Sandy Newsome, and Rep. Tom Walters.
Set to take effect on January 1, 2025, the legislation outlines the framework for mobile casino games, poker, and blackjack. It specifies the operational, financial, and regulatory requirements for interactive gaming operators and vendors, including permit fees and the application process.
The law would also allow Wyoming to join the Multi-State Interstate Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), allowing for larger player pools and increased liquidity. Additionally, the act mandates that a portion of interactive gaming revenue be allocated to fund county health programs addressing problematic gambling.
The existing gambling regulator, the Wyoming Gaming Commission, would handle the licensing and oversight of the market if enacted. It would allow five operators to launch, with an initial $100,000 licensing fee, renewable every five years for $50,000. Vendor permits are also available for $10,000, with a $5,000 renewal fee.
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Each of the operators in WY offers an online casino, while BetMGM operates an online poker network with interstate player pools. Joining MSIGA would allow Wyoming players to potentially join their fellow players in New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania in cash games and tournaments
The Blue Sky State established a similar framework when it legalized sports betting in 2021. Wyoming sports betting law allowed five operators to launch, with four eventually accepting wagers in the state. The four sportsbooks currently available in the state – DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and BetMGM – each operator offers an online casino in legal states, so would be expected to apply for a casino license should the bill win lawmakers’ approval.
