Wyoming lawmakers have decided to delay consideration of online casino legalization for 2025, making it the second state to postpone such efforts this year, alongside Virginia, The Daily Progress reports.
The Joint Travel, Recreation, Wildlife & Cultural Resources Committee recently opted not to advance House Bill 162, which would have legalized online casino gambling in the state. Despite discussions over multiple meetings, concerns over responsible gambling and potential impacts on tribal gaming led lawmakers to hold off on moving the bill forward in its current form.
Rep. Robert Davis, who introduced the bill, indicated that this year’s discussions were primarily educational. The proposal followed a study by Spectrum Gaming Group, which explored the potential for expanded gambling in Wyoming.
Under the proposed legislation, the Wyoming Gaming Commission would have overseen the industry, with preference given to online operators already active in at least three other markets.
Spectrum Gaming Group estimated that an online casino industry in Wyoming could generate up to $200 million in annual revenue, contributing approximately $40 million in state taxes. Comparatively, Wyoming’s legal sports betting industry, which launched in 2021, has generated $518 million in wagers and $3.2 million in state taxes from $54.6 million in operator revenue.
Supporters of the proposal, including the Sports Betting Alliance, argued that regulation would help eliminate illegal gambling markets and provide consumer protections.
Wyoming’s decision mirrors a similar move in Virginia, where Sen. Mamie Locke postponed her online casino bill until 2026. During a subcommittee hearing, Locke emphasized the need for further study before moving forward.
“This bill is designed to authorize reputable, regulated companies to offer internet gaming to Virginians within a safe and legal market,” Locke said. “However, after introducing this bill, we have decided that it requires further study on this issue.”
Wyoming and Virginia are among several states that have introduced online casino legislation in 2025. Illinois recently joined the conversation, while states like Indiana and Maryland continue to debate potential legalization.
