The Rise of Online Casinos: How Different States Are Handling Legalization
The Rise of Online Casinos: How Different States Are Handling Legalization
Published 9:24 pm Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Online gambling continues to evolve across the United States, with online casinos gaining mainstream attention.
The digital gaming industry is shifting due to changing regulations, emerging technologies, and a growing comfort with online gaming experiences.
Only a handful of states have legalized real-money online casino gambling, but that number may soon grow.
Several states are actively considering new legislation or revisiting previous efforts to allow online casinos. States Where Online Casinos Are Already Legal Before we dive into the up-and-coming contenders, take note of the “Magnificent Seven” states where online casinos are legal and operational:
Connecticut – Legal and live since October 19, 2021 Delaware – Legal since 2012 Michigan – Legal and live since January 22, 2021
New Jersey – Sites for online Casino in NJ have been legal and regulated since November 2013, offering licensed real-money gaming online
Pennsylvania – Legal since October 26, 2017, with online platforms launching in July 2019 West Virginia – Legal and live since July 15, 2020
Rhode Island – Legal as of June 2023, with the first platform launching in March 2024
These states serve as models for others considering legalization. With structured oversight, responsible gambling protocols, and secure platforms, they have helped normalize the idea that online casinos can operate in a well-regulated environment. States to Watch in 2025 Several states are making headlines this year with renewed or first-time efforts to legalize online casinos.
Here are five that stand out. Maryland Maryland is emerging as a leader in the next wave of states considering online casino legalization. Delegate Vanessa Atterbeary is leading House Bill 17 (HB 17) to regulate online casinos under Maryland’s Lottery and Gaming Control Commission.
Read more at: https://www.troymessenger.com/2025/05/27/the-rise-of-online-casinos-how-different-states-are-handling-legalization/