In recent years, the landscape of gambling in the United States has been rapidly changing. With the landmark Supreme Court decision in 2018 that legalized sports betting, many states have jumped at the opportunity to regulate and tax this lucrative industry. As a result, the iGaming industry has been booming, with online casinos and sportsbooks popping up in states across the country.
Now, experts are beginning to speculate on which states will be the next to legalize gambling. With the potential for massive tax revenue and economic growth, many states are seriously considering taking the plunge. But which states are most likely to legalize gambling next?
One of the top contenders is Texas. With a population of over 29 million people, Texas has the potential to become one of the biggest gambling markets in the country. The state already has a strong gaming culture, with horse racing tracks and tribal casinos already in operation. Lawmakers in Texas have been flirting with the idea of legalizing gambling for years, and many believe that it is only a matter of time before the state takes the plunge.
Another potential candidate is Florida. The Sunshine State has a thriving tourism industry, and many believe that legalizing gambling could help attract even more visitors. With major cities like Miami and Orlando, Florida has the potential to become a major player in the iGaming industry. Lawmakers in Florida have been considering legalizing gambling for years, and with the economic devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many believe that now is the time to make a move.
Other states that are considered potential candidates for legalizing gambling include Georgia, Nebraska, and Kansas. Each of these states has its own unique set of circumstances that make them attractive to gambling operators. Whether it’s a growing population, a struggling economy, or a strong gaming culture, these states all have the potential to become major players in the iGaming industry.
Of course, there are also states that are unlikely to legalize gambling anytime soon. States like Utah and Hawaii have strict anti-gambling laws in place, and it is unlikely that they will change their stance anytime soon. Additionally, some states may face opposition from conservative lawmakers or anti-gambling groups, making it difficult for them to pass legislation legalizing gambling.
Overall, the future of gambling in the United States is uncertain. While many states have already legalized sports betting, there are still plenty of states that have yet to take the plunge. As the iGaming industry continues to grow, it is only a matter of time before more states join the party and legalize gambling. Only time will tell which states will be next in line.