Missouri is hopping on the online casino bandwagon. Today, state representative Dan Houx introduced House Bill No. 1364, which would legalize online casino gaming in the Show Me state.
The Details
Missouri online casino operators would need a casino partner. Each land-based casino in the state would have access to three skins, each at an initial fee of $50,000. This means Missouri’s land-based properties could each offer up to three separate online casino sites from different major brands.
Should the bill pass, expect heavy hitters like DraftKings, FanDuel, Golden Nugget, BetMGM, and many more to throw their hats in the ring.
The proposed legislation also allows for remote online registration and a 12% tax rate.
According to Chris Krafcik on Twitter, the bill is a “potential alternative to VGT authorization.” VGTs, or Video Gaming Terminals, are very similar to slot machines, though they use a lottery-based math model. Some states, such as Missouri neighbor Illinois, allow bars, gas stations, truck stops, and even grocery stores to have small sections dedicated to these machines as an added revenue stream.
We’re hearing that online casino is being proposed in Missouri as a potential alternative to VGT authorization. https://t.co/IRsPDBjSkM
— Chris Krafcik (@CKrafcik) March 3, 2021
In Good Company
The online casino train is chugging its way across the US, with many states hopping on board in the hopes of legalization. As sports betting spreads to new markets on a regular basis, those same markets are looking to leverage the opportunity offered by new gambling formats.
For example, an Illinois casino bill was introduced in recent weeks, which would add to the state’s bustling sports betting market. Michigan, meanwhile, legalized nearly every form of online gambling in one fell swoop.
In short, Missouri is in good company.
Sports Betting Possible As Well?
And that’s not all, folks. Missouri is also headed toward sports betting regulation. In February 2021, state lawmakers introduced three separate bills that would bring online sports betting to the state. Missouri senators estimate sportsbooks could bring in $50 million in state revenue.
With sports betting and online casinos on the table, it’s possible Missouri could soon be an online gambling hub.
About the Author
