Connecticut won’t fast-track iGaming bill

A potential online gambling legislation won’t be fast-tracked next to sports betting following PASPA’s repeal, lawmakers say.

US.- The gambling landscape in Connecticut is ready to be changed after the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) revoked the Professional and Amateur Sports Betting Act (PASPA) and allowed sports betting all around the globe. However, though lawmakers are set to debate sports betting in a special session, an online gambling bill won’t be fast-tracked with it.

Governor Dannel Malloy, who is soon to negotiate a new gaming compact with the state’s two tribal operators, suggested that online gambling and sports betting should be discussed at once, as it would be more “pragmatic” to renegotiate with the tribes twice. However, House Majority Leader Matt Ritter stated: “A special session does not lend itself to something so complicated. How do you verify age? How does it work when you go across the border? Are there daily limits?”

Connecticut wants to stay competitive next to neighbouring states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, which are set to roll out the segment. That’s why Gov. Malloy is set to challenge the tribes’ exclusivity claim over sports betting as they argue it is “a casino game”, posing a major threat for the state’s ambition to compete.