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  • Atlantic City to Review Casino PILOT Program Amid Financial Uncertainty

    Atlantic City to Review Casino PILOT Program Amid Financial Uncertainty

    A newly formed commission is set to examine the effectiveness of Atlantic City’s casino payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) program, a system that allows casinos to pay a fixed industry-wide assessment instead of traditional property taxes. With the program nearing its expiration, state officials and local leaders are debating its future impact on the city’s economy and financial stability.

    Commission to Finally Take Shape After Years of Delay

    The commission was originally mandated in the 2016 PILOT legislation but was removed in the 2021 revisions. Now, state officials are moving forward with its formation to review whether the program should continue beyond next year.

    Under the original law, the commission was supposed to start work on January 1, 2025, and issue a final report by July 1. However, questions remain about whether the timeline will hold. Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson and State Sen. Vince Polistina, R-2nd, recently said they have yet to hear from the governor’s office about its formation or any progress.

    Financial Impact of PILOT Payments in Atlantic City

    Since its introduction in 2016, the PILOT program has provided Atlantic City with a level of financial stability by preventing costly and repeated casino property tax appeals. The program has contributed significantly to local revenues:

    • In 2023, the city received $51.6 million in PILOT payments.
    • In 2024, the total PILOT revenue dropped slightly to $48.5 million.

    Despite this financial support, critics argue that recent changes to the program have shifted the tax burden away from casinos and onto other taxpayers.

    2021 Revisions Reduced Casino Tax Burden

    A key factor in the upcoming review is the 2021 changes to the PILOT program. These revisions removed online gaming and sports betting revenue from the calculation of gross gaming revenue, which significantly reduced casino tax obligations.

    The impact of these changes is significant:

    Year Estimated Tax Reduction for Casinos
    2022 $55 million
    2023 $55 million
    2024 $55 million

    State officials justified these revisions by citing increased competition from neighboring states and financial setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The adjustments were aimed at keeping Atlantic City’s casino industry competitive and avoiding potential closures.

    Legal Battle Over the PILOT Program

    Not everyone agrees with the state’s rationale. Atlantic County has taken legal action, arguing that the 2021 amendments violate a 2018 consent agreement between the state and the county. County officials say that by reducing casinos’ financial obligations, the revised PILOT program unfairly cuts into local government funding.

    The lawsuit underscores broader concerns about the program’s fairness and sustainability. If the commission finds that the PILOT structure disproportionately benefits casinos at the expense of local services, lawmakers may face pressure to either revise or scrap the program altogether.

    Long-Term Consequences for Atlantic City

    Mike Chait, president of the Greater Atlantic City Chamber, stressed the importance of a thorough, data-driven review. He emphasized that the commission’s work will have lasting consequences for the city’s economic future.

    “The decisions made here will shape Atlantic City’s economic foundation for years to come,” Chait said.

    Local businesses, casino operators, and residents will all have a stake in the commission’s findings. The final report will likely influence future financial policies, particularly concerning Atlantic City’s reliance on PILOT payments versus traditional tax structures.

    With major financial and legal questions still unresolved, the commission’s work could set the stage for a contentious debate over Atlantic City’s long-term economic strategy

  • New Zealand Lawmakers Weigh TAB Monopoly for Online Betting Amid Growing Concerns

    New Zealand Lawmakers Weigh TAB Monopoly for Online Betting Amid Growing Concerns

    New Zealand’s lawmakers are locked in debate over a bill that could reshape the country’s online betting landscape. If passed, the legislation would grant TAB New Zealand a monopoly over online racing and sports betting. Proponents argue it’s a way to keep gambling revenue within the country, while critics fear it could backfire, pushing bettors toward offshore platforms.

    Government Aims for Control Over Betting Revenue

    The proposed changes to the Racing Industry Act 2020 would effectively shut out private online bookmakers, making TAB NZ the sole legal option. Supporters say this is a necessary move to safeguard responsible gambling and ensure revenue stays in New Zealand’s economy.

    One key argument from lawmakers backing the bill is that a state-controlled system can better enforce gambling regulations. Unlike offshore platforms, TAB NZ would be required to reinvest its earnings into local racing and sports organizations.

    Gambling Minister Kieran McAnulty has stressed that betting revenue plays a crucial role in funding New Zealand’s racing industry, which employs thousands of people. “This is about making sure that profits from betting are directed where they should be—into supporting New Zealand’s racing and sporting communities,” he said.

    Critics Warn of Reduced Competition and Black Market Risks

    Not everyone is convinced. Some industry experts believe shutting out competition could reduce innovation and lead to worse odds for bettors. Without private operators in the mix, they argue, TAB NZ would have little incentive to offer competitive payouts or improve its platform.

    • The Commerce Commission, New Zealand’s watchdog for fair competition, has not yet taken a stance on the bill. Some expect that it may raise concerns, as the organization has pushed for more competition in other industries, including banking and supermarkets.
    • Critics also warn that bettors frustrated by limited options might turn to black market gambling sites. These platforms often operate outside of New Zealand’s regulatory framework, making it harder to enforce responsible gambling measures.

    Industry analyst Gregor Thompson highlighted this risk, saying: “That is clearly a risk and the minister has acknowledged that will likely happen, that very committed sports bettors will find a way around the law using things like cryptocurrencies.”

    Entain’s Legal Troubles Raise Red Flags

    Adding another layer of complexity to the debate is the controversy surrounding TAB NZ’s operating partner, Entain. The British-based gambling giant, which signed a 25-year partnership with TAB NZ in 2023, is currently facing legal scrutiny in multiple countries.

    Regulators in Australia, the UK, and Turkey have all investigated Entain over alleged financial misconduct:

    Jurisdiction Allegations Regulatory Body
    Australia Anti-money laundering violations AUSTRAC
    United Kingdom Financial reporting irregularities Financial Reporting Council
    Turkey Bribery linked to former operations Settled in 2023

    With such ongoing legal battles, some lawmakers question whether Entain is the right long-term partner for TAB NZ. Racing Minister Winston Peters has been briefed on the situation, but his office has declined to comment publicly.

    What’s Next for the Bill?

    The bill is still in its early stages, and much depends on how lawmakers respond to concerns from both supporters and critics.

    • If passed, New Zealand would become one of the few countries to enforce a state-run online betting monopoly.
    • If rejected, the government may need to explore alternative ways to tax offshore bookmakers or regulate them more effectively.

    For now, the debate continues, with plenty of questions still unanswered. Will limiting competition really protect New Zealand bettors, or will it drive them underground? And with Entain’s legal troubles making headlines, is TAB NZ’s monopoly already on shaky ground?

  • Casinos Join Forces to Push Back Against Online Gaming Expansion

    Casinos Join Forces to Push Back Against Online Gaming Expansion

    A battle over the future of gambling in the U.S. is heating up. As more states consider legalizing online gaming and poker, a coalition of casino operators is pushing back hard. The newly formed National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG) argues that digital gambling threatens local economies, jobs, and tax revenues. Their latest study paints a bleak picture, warning of massive financial losses if iGaming continues to spread.

    Casino Operators Sound the Alarm

    Brick-and-mortar casinos have long been economic pillars in many states, providing jobs and contributing heavily to tax revenue. But according to NAAiG, legalizing iGaming threatens that balance. The group, which includes regional casino operators, claims online gambling cuts deeply into casino revenues.

    Their newly released study suggests that land-based casinos suffer an average 16% revenue drop when iGaming is introduced. This, they say, results in:

    • Widespread job losses
    • Reduced economic activity in local communities
    • Significant cuts in tax contributions that fund essential services

    Mark Stewart, Executive Vice President and general counsel for The Cordish Companies and a board member of NAAiG, is blunt about the risks. “iGaming’s unchecked access to gambling on cell phones is bad public policy that threatens local jobs and businesses and will cost states,” he said.

    The Numbers: Jobs, GDP, and Tax Revenue at Risk

    The NAAiG study delivers stark projections for several states currently considering iGaming expansion. By 2029, thousands of jobs could be lost across key markets:

    State Projected Job Losses Estimated GDP Reduction
    New York 4,921 Not specified
    Illinois 4,733 Not specified
    Ohio 2,818 $602 million
    Indiana Not specified $428 million
    Maryland Not specified $372 million
    Colorado Not specified $313 million

    Beyond job cuts, the report highlights that iGaming’s tax revenue gains are not as lucrative as they seem. Factoring in social costs—such as addiction treatment and increased problem gambling—the study claims that states could see net negative tax impacts rather than the expected windfall.

    The Divide: Online Gaming Advocates Fire Back

    Not everyone in the industry agrees with NAAiG’s conclusions. Major casino operators with a foothold in online gaming, including Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts, and Rush Street Interactive, argue that iGaming can boost overall gambling revenues.

    A separate study released in 2024 by iDEA Growth (iDevelopment and Economic Association) tells a different story. Conducted by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming (EKG), the research found that states with regulated iGaming saw an average quarterly revenue increase of 2.4% across six states.

    Jeff Ifrah, founder and general counsel of iDEA, strongly disputes NAAiG’s claims. “This study offers compelling evidence that online gambling is a catalyst for growth, not a competitor to land-based casinos,” he said.

    What’s Next? States Weigh Their Options

    With dueling studies and strong opinions on both sides, state lawmakers are left to decide which argument holds more weight. The debate over iGaming expansion is far from settled, and with billions of dollars at stake, both casino operators and policymakers will be watching closely.

    Some states, like Maryland, are in particularly tricky positions. While companies like Cordish oppose iGaming on principle, they have acknowledged they would seek a license if legalization happens. As Stewart put it, “We will do very well, but we think Maryland won’t do very well, and we know our employees won’t do very well, and that’s why we’re opposed to it.”

    Other major casino operators, like Monarch Casino and Churchill Downs Incorporated, have joined NAAiG in resisting online gambling expansion.

    The battle over iGaming is far from over, and with new legislative sessions underway across multiple states, the coming months could shape the industry’s future for years to come.

  • Police Arrest Man at Las Vegas Casino on Terrorism Charges

    Police Arrest Man at Las Vegas Casino on Terrorism Charges

  • Wynn Reports $1.8 Billion in Q4 Revenue, Highlights UAE Focus in Investor Call

    Wynn Reports $1.8 Billion in Q4 Revenue, Highlights UAE Focus in Investor Call

  • Minnesota Sports Betting Bill Hits Roadblock in Senate Committee

    Minnesota Sports Betting Bill Hits Roadblock in Senate Committee

  • Hawaii Lawmakers Shut Down Casino Gambling Proposal—For Now

    Hawaii Lawmakers Shut Down Casino Gambling Proposal—For Now

    Hawaii lawmakers have once again put a firm stop to any plans for casino gambling, shelving a proposal that would have introduced regulated casinos in the state. The bill, which sought to bring gaming to the upcoming Aloha Stadium Entertainment District, faced strong opposition and was ultimately scrapped.

    Senate Bill 893 Fails to Gain Support

    Senate Bill 893, which would have created a Hawaii Gaming Control Commission, was indefinitely deferred on Thursday. The move effectively ends any discussion of legalizing casino gambling in Hawaii—at least for now.

    The bill outlined plans to regulate gaming operations and impose a 15% wagering tax on gross receipts. However, it never gained serious traction among lawmakers.

    State Senator Lynn DeCoite, who announced the decision, made it clear that there was little appetite for casino gambling in Hawaii. “Casino gambling has not always been a favorite subject,” DeCoite said. “Regardless of if we flying to Vegas or flying to any other place, we’ve always had our challenges here in Hawaii.”

    Strong Opposition from Government Agencies

    The proposal faced stiff resistance from multiple agencies and organizations, further dooming its chances.

    • The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs opposed the bill, citing regulatory concerns.
    • The Department of the Attorney General raised legal and enforcement issues.
    • The Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney’s Office warned of potential crime and social issues tied to gambling.

    With such a broad coalition of opponents, the bill had little hope of moving forward.

    Applause Signals Relief from Opponents

    When the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism made the decision to defer the bill indefinitely, the reaction in the room was telling. The announcement was met with applause, a clear sign of relief from those who had spoken out against the proposal.

    The move keeps Hawaii as one of only two states—alongside Utah—that do not permit any form of commercial gambling.

    A Long History of Gambling Rejections

    Hawaii has consistently resisted efforts to legalize gambling, despite frequent proposals over the years. The reasons for opposition vary:

    • Concerns over addiction and social harm.
    • The state’s tourism-based economy already thriving without gambling revenue.
    • Fear that casinos could bring organized crime.

    Yet, despite the state’s hardline stance, gambling remains a popular pastime for many residents. Hawaii has some of the highest per capita spending on Las Vegas trips in the nation, with thousands of locals flocking to Nevada casinos every year.

    What’s Next for Gambling in Hawaii?

    With this bill dead in the water, the question remains—will Hawaii ever legalize gambling?

    For now, the answer seems to be no. Lawmakers have consistently shown little interest in the idea, and the latest rejection reinforces that position. However, as financial pressures grow and the debate continues, future proposals are almost inevitable.

    For now, though, Hawaii’s strict stance on gambling remains unchanged.

  • Churchill Downs Opens $100 Million Owensboro Racing & Gaming Venue in Kentucky

    Churchill Downs Opens $100 Million Owensboro Racing & Gaming Venue in Kentucky

    Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has officially unveiled Owensboro Racing & Gaming, a $100 million entertainment complex in Owensboro, Kentucky. The facility, packed with gaming options and dining experiences, is expected to energize the local economy while strengthening the state’s horse racing industry.

    A Major Bet on Kentucky’s Gaming Future

    CDI has been steadily expanding its presence in Kentucky, and this latest venue cements its commitment to the region. The 600-machine gaming hall, featuring historical racing machines (HRMs), a retail sportsbook, and simulcast wagering, offers a fresh entertainment option for residents and visitors alike.

    But it’s not just about gaming. CDI envisions this venue as an economic catalyst, funneling revenues into Kentucky’s purse funding system to support live horse racing. The funds will directly benefit Ellis Park Racing & Gaming in Henderson, ensuring more competitive summer meets in the future.

    Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI, highlighted the company’s broader ambitions. “Owensboro’s newest entertainment destination will drive new tourism, entertainment, and economic opportunities in eastern Daviess County,” he said.

    Crowds Brave the Rain for Grand Opening

    The enthusiasm for Owensboro Racing & Gaming was evident from the start. Despite gloomy weather, eager patrons lined up well before sunrise for the grand opening. Angeline Jacobs, the very first in line, arrived at 5:30 AM—almost six hours before the doors opened.

    “I think it’s a great thing because you don’t have to go very far for gaming—it’s just so fun and it’s right here in your backyard,” Jacobs told local media.

    By the time the ribbon was cut, the crowd had swelled to hundreds, proving that interest in the venue was anything but lukewarm.

    Boosting Local Jobs and the Economy

    Beyond the flashing lights of the gaming floor, the project has already made an economic impact. The construction phase generated 200 jobs, while the operational side has created 224 permanent positions.

    Steve Roof, General Manager of Owensboro Racing & Gaming, acknowledged the strong turnout and the local workforce’s role in the project’s success. “The turnout is awesome, especially with the rain and the drizzle—I thought it might be down a little bit, but it is incredible,” he said.

    CDI officials expect the venue, which will operate around the clock, to be a long-term economic driver for the region.

    What’s Next for Owensboro Racing & Gaming?

    CDI isn’t stopping here. The company has hinted at future enhancements to the venue, promising new attractions and entertainment options over time.

    A company spokesperson emphasized the long-term vision in a statement: “We’re thrilled to finally open our doors to the public and to continuously introduce exciting reasons to come back again and again.”

    With CDI’s track record of expanding and refining its gaming properties, it’s likely that Owensboro Racing & Gaming will continue evolving, drawing even larger crowds in the years to come.

  • Texas Lawmaker Pushes for Constitutional Amendment on Sports Betting

    Texas Lawmaker Pushes for Constitutional Amendment on Sports Betting

    A Texas lawmaker has taken a significant step toward legalizing sports betting in the state, introducing a proposed constitutional amendment that could put the decision directly in the hands of voters. If approved, Texans will have the chance to determine whether sports wagering should be legalized and regulated under state law.

    A Step Toward Legalized Sports Betting

    State Representative Sam Harless filed House Joint Resolution 134 on Wednesday, officially setting the stage for lawmakers to consider adding the measure to the ballot in the next election cycle. The proposed amendment aims to modify the Texas Constitution, clearing the way for a regulated sports betting framework.

    If the legislature gives it the green light, Texans will vote on the issue on November 4, 2025. The amendment would authorize sports wagering through licensed partnerships with professional sports teams, Class 1 racetracks, and other state-approved operators.

    Texas is one of the few large states that still bans sports betting, but pressure has been mounting from various corners to change that. The growing momentum behind legalization reflects shifting public attitudes, industry interests, and a desire to capitalize on potential tax revenue.

    Strong Support from Texas Sports Industry

    Major professional sports teams across Texas have thrown their weight behind the initiative, making it clear that they see sports betting as an opportunity rather than a threat. The Texas Sports Betting Alliance (TSBA), a coalition that includes teams, leagues, racetracks, and sportsbooks, has come out strongly in favor of Harless’ resolution.

    “We appreciate Rep. Harless introducing this constitutional amendment,” said TSBA spokesperson Karina Kling. “Right now, unregulated sports betting is happening across the state, putting consumers at risk and costing Texas millions in lost tax revenue every year. It’s time to let Texans take control and decide if they want a strong, regulatory framework for sports betting—just like the 39 states that have already moved forward.”

    The argument is straightforward: people in Texas are already betting on sports through unregulated channels, which means the state is missing out on tax revenue that could be used for public services. Legalizing sports betting would provide oversight, consumer protections, and a financial boost for Texas.

    What Texans Think About Sports Betting

    Public opinion appears to favor legalization. A University of Houston poll found that:

    • 60% of Texans support online sports betting.
    • 74% favor allowing destination resort casinos, which would further expand gambling options in the state.

    These numbers suggest that a public vote on the issue could lead to sports betting becoming a reality in Texas. However, political challenges remain, and public opinion alone may not be enough to push the amendment through.

    Political Roadblocks in the Texas Senate

    Despite strong support from voters and sports industry stakeholders, the legislative path for sports betting remains uncertain. The Texas House has historically been more receptive to gambling expansion, but the Texas Senate presents a tougher challenge.

    Governor Greg Abbott has expressed openness to letting voters decide, but Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who controls the Senate’s agenda, has been less enthusiastic. Patrick has repeatedly stated that he won’t bring gambling legislation to the Senate floor unless it has strong backing from Republican lawmakers.

    For sports betting to appear on the 2025 ballot, it must clear the legislature with a two-thirds majority in both chambers—a high bar that will require significant Republican support.

    The Economic Argument for Sports Betting

    While moral and political debates continue, the economic case for legalization is hard to ignore. Texas is already losing out on millions in potential tax revenue as residents turn to illegal betting markets or travel to neighboring states where sports gambling is allowed.

    A report from GeoComply, a company specializing in geolocation security, revealed that:

    • Nearly 1.5 million geolocation checks were recorded in Texas in November 2024.
    • These checks indicate a high level of interest in online sports betting, despite current prohibitions.

    Other states that have embraced sports betting, including New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, have generated hundreds of millions in tax revenue from the industry. Texas, with its massive population and strong sports culture, could become one of the most lucrative sports betting markets in the country.

    What Happens Next?

    With House Joint Resolution 134 now in play, lawmakers will have to decide whether to let voters weigh in on the issue. The debate will likely intensify in the coming months as supporters and opponents of legalized sports betting make their cases.

    If Texas lawmakers give the go-ahead, the decision will ultimately rest with the people. Given the strong public support and growing industry backing, the odds of sports betting becoming legal in Texas are better than ever—but the final outcome is still uncertain.

  • New York Senate Committee Greenlights Sports Betting Expansion

    New York Senate Committee Greenlights Sports Betting Expansion

    A New York Senate committee has unanimously approved a bill that could significantly widen the state’s sports betting options, opening the door for a broader range of wagers, including proposition bets and bets on major sports awards. The move signals a push to further capitalize on the booming betting market, but it also comes amid growing national concerns over sports integrity.

    Expanded Betting Options on the Table

    Senate Bill 2616, spearheaded by Senator Joseph Addabbo, would introduce new betting opportunities for gamblers across the state. If passed, it would allow:

    • In-game and season-long proposition bets
    • Wagers on coin tosses
    • Betting on future team and individual honors, such as the Heisman Trophy and NFL MVP

    Currently, New York prohibits betting on sports awards, placing it alongside states like Colorado, Massachusetts, and Virginia, which have similar restrictions. Addabbo believes this expansion will boost “an already successful” online sports betting market, which has been a massive revenue generator for the state.

    The bill must now pass through the full Senate and the House before landing on Governor Kathy Hochul’s desk for final approval.

    National Concerns Over Proposition Bets

    While New York considers expansion, the issue of proposition bets—especially on individual college athletes—has been under increasing scrutiny. NCAA President Charlie Baker has been vocal in his opposition, calling for a nationwide ban.

    “Prop bets continue to threaten the integrity of competition and lead to student-athletes and professional athletes getting harassed,” Baker said in a recent statement.

    Several states, including Louisiana, Ohio, and Maryland, have already banned proposition bets on college athletes in response to concerns about match-fixing and potential threats to players. New York’s bill does not directly address college prop bets, but the broader conversation is likely to influence future discussions.

    New York’s Sports Betting Boom Continues

    Despite these concerns, New York’s sports betting industry is thriving. The state reported an all-time high of $22.6 billion in total wagers in 2024, the largest betting handle in U.S. history. That translated into $2 billion in operator revenue and more than $1 billion in tax revenue for the state.

    The momentum carried into January 2025, which set a new monthly record with $2.5 billion in total handle and $247 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR)—the biggest single-month performance since the state launched online sports betting in 2022.

    With numbers like these, it’s no surprise that lawmakers are eager to expand the industry further.

    Online Casino Push Gains Momentum

    Alongside sports betting expansion, Senator Addabbo is also leading the charge to legalize online casinos in New York through Senate Bill 2614. The bill proposes a regulated online gaming market with key provisions, including:

    • Licensing eligibility for casinos, video lottery terminal (VLT) parlors, sportsbooks, and tribal operators
    • A $2 million license fee for land-based casino operators
    • A $10 million fee for independent contractors running online platforms

    A previous attempt to legalize online casinos failed last year, but Addabbo remains optimistic about this latest effort. Supporters argue that legalizing online casinos could further boost state revenue, though opponents cite regulatory challenges and concerns over problem gambling.

    Next Steps for SB 2616

    The sports betting bill now moves to the full Senate for a vote, followed by consideration in the House. If both chambers approve, it will head to Governor Hochul’s desk for final ratification.

    At the same time, lawmakers are weighing the potential benefits and risks of online casino expansion. The debate over gambling regulations in New York is far from over, and the coming months could shape the future of the industry.