• Industry
    • Opinion
    • Features
      • iGaming Data
      • Sports Betting Data
    • Finance
    • Online Casinos
    • Podcast

      News

      Wyoming May Reconsider Online Gambling With Spectrum Gaming Study And Recommendations

      The new study could offer a roadmap to refine and reintroduce the legislation that recently failed

      By Erik Gibbs

      Last updated: November 20, 2024

      2 min

      wyoming scenic

      In the wake of the Wyoming House’s rejection of a bill to legalize online gambling last session, efforts to revive the initiative are gaining momentum. Lawmakers recently received a detailed report from Spectrum Gaming Group, commissioned to assess the state’s gambling market and regulatory landscape. The findings could shape a fresh legislative approach in the upcoming session, focusing on modernizing gaming laws and addressing concerns raised during the previous debate.

      The failed bill aimed to legalize online gambling, outlining provisions for licensing, oversight, and defining permissible activities. Despite its comprehensive nature, the measure was voted down, with 25 representatives supporting it and 36 opposing, while one was excused.

      The new study may offer a roadmap to refine and reintroduce the legislation, potentially swaying lawmakers who opposed it earlier. 

      Spectrum Gaming’s study examined several facets of Wyoming’s gambling industry, including pari-mutuel racing, historical horse racing (HHR), skill-based amusement games, charitable gaming, and online sports wagering. The analysis revealed that Wyoming’s regulatory system is largely effective and comparable to those in other gaming jurisdictions. However, the study also highlighted areas for improvement to ensure the state remains competitive and upholds best practices. 

      Key findings and recommendations 

      Among Spectrum’s recommendations is the establishment of a general counsel position within the Wyoming Gaming Commission (WGC) to strengthen legal oversight. The report also advised raising the minimum age for wagering on HHR and online sports betting from 18 to 21, aligning it with existing regulations for skill-based amusement games. This change reflects a broader industry trend prioritizing responsible gambling practices. 

      The report also delved into licensing criteria, urging uniform standards across all gaming operations. Notably, Spectrum suggested revisiting Wyoming’s 15% corporate ownership threshold, which currently triggers licensing for sports wagering applicants. The study called for more flexible rules to accommodate institutional investors while maintaining strict oversight to prevent undue influence on gaming operations. 

      To bolster regulatory efficiency, Spectrum proposed a centralized monitoring system for skill-based gaming machines and advocated for statutory amendments. These would allow the WGC’s executive director to extend mandatory licensing timelines in exceptional cases.

      Additionally, the study recommended enhanced anti-money laundering measures, including a state-level law criminalizing such activities and the appointment of a WGC law enforcement officer to focus on intelligence within the gaming sector. 

      Potential legislative impact 

      Proponents of online gambling may turn to the report as a key element to push legislation forward in the state. By addressing many of the issues that may have led to the bill’s failure, a completely reworded bill could have better chances of success.

      As reported by @BonusUpdate – the Wyoming online casino bill is already dead. As I reported Monday (https://t.co/lQSHeldR5W), it was a tough lift due to the Wyoming legislative session lasting about 20 days in odd-numbered years and bills requiring a 2/3 vote (see image).… pic.twitter.com/JoDrETmcG3

      — Steve Ruddock (@SteveRuddock) February 16, 2024

      Opponents of the earlier legislation have expressed caution, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable populations and prevent the social harms often associated with gambling. While some remain unconvinced, Spectrum’s focus on regulatory safeguards and responsible gambling could help bridge the divide. 

      The potential economic benefits of online gambling are a key driver for its advocates. Wyoming’s sparse population and rural character pose challenges for traditional gambling operations, but online platforms could open new revenue streams for the state. Spectrum’s report did not provide a specific revenue projection, but supporters argue that legalizing online sports betting could generate millions in tax revenue annually.

      Get Weekly Email Updates

      Covering all aspects of regulated U.S. online casinos, iGaming, sweepstakes, and more

      Related Posts

      greg abbott

      Texas Gov. Abbott Now In Support Of Legalized Sports Betting

      missouri sports betting

      Missouri Keeps Sports Betting And Casino Proposals On Ballot Despite Legal Challenges

      amazon office

      Amazon Faces 2026 Trial In Groundbreaking Social Casino Lawsuit

      minnesota vikings

      Competing Sports Betting Bills Filed In Minnesota Senate

      Recommended Read

      glasses focus

      Industry

      Ruddock Report: Legislators’ Focus Is Not On Online Casino

      There’s More…

      Stacks of hundred-dollar bills

      News

      Shohei Ohtani’s Ex-Interpreter To Plead Guilty In $17 Million Embezzlement Case

      Mizuhara will be arraigned on May 14, when he is expected to formally admit guilt to the charges of bank fraud and tax evasion.

      September 9, 2024

      Erik Gibbs

      board room

      News

      Kalshi Enlists Industry Strategist Slane As It Fights To Legally Offer Sports Markets

      April 8, 2025

      Eric Raskin

      cease and desist

      News

      Maryland Latest To Take Aim At ‘Sweepstakes’ Operators With Cease-And-Desist Letters

      January 16, 2025

      Chris Altruda

      News

      Problem Gambling Advisory Bill Passes Out Of New York Senate

      March 28, 2025

      Chris Altruda

      Get Weekly Email Updates

      Covering all aspects of regulated U.S. online casinos, iGaming, sweepstakes, and more

      • About
      • Contact
      • Privacy
      • Terms
      • Disclosure
      • Responsible Gaming

      © 2025 Casino Reports. Web Design by Fhoke.