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Massachusetts lawmakers have opted to pause pushing forward legislation that would permit online casinos in the commonwealth.
The Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies voted 11-0 on Monday to send House Bill 4431 to study, a procedural move that stalls action until the 2027 session.
In addition to allowing real money online casino gambling through the commonwealth, including poker and table games, HB 4431 also looks to prohibit sweepstakes casinos.
The delay means a one year reprieve for sweepstakes casinos like Chumba and Spree.
Unlike a real money online casino, sweepstakes - or social casinos - is an online platform that allows users to play casino-style games, including slots, bingo, table games, and even live casino games, using virtual currency instead of real money. These types of online casinos rely on additional real money purchases once the free play component is exhausted. In contrast, real money online casinos require a small deposit that can be increased through wins. Free play and cash bonuses are typically offered as well.
“The momentum H4431 created this session will hopefully serve as a springboard to future economic growth in Massachusetts, while always focusing on consumer protections and safeguards,” Rep. David Muradian Jr., the bill’s sponsor, said, according to State House News Service.
H4431 would also have permitted the three casinos currently operating in Massachusetts to each offer up to three online casinos.
The state planned to also place a 15% tax on gross online gaming revenue and create safeguards to prevent minors from accessing the platforms and set deposit limits.
“This is not an expansion of gambling for its own sake,” Muradian Jr. said in November during a House session. “It’s an expansion of accountability. It’s about taking activity that is already happening and making it safe, transparent and beneficial to our state and, most importantly, our residents.
“This bill reflects what Massachusetts has always done, thoughtful, responsible regulation that protects consumers, fosters innovation and ensures fairness.”
Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com
