The 2024 Elections: What’s at Stake for the US Gambling Industry
As Election Day 2024 approaches, the gambling industry is keeping a close eye on several key state races that could shape gaming regulations in the coming years. While 2024 hasn’t seen significant movement toward expanding gaming or restricting online gambling, November’s outcomes could set the stage for future developments.
Arkansas Faces Uncertain Casino Vote
In 2018, Arkansas voters approved four brick-and-mortar casinos, but a long-running legal battle has stalled construction of a fourth in Pope County. This November, voters could be asked to remove Pope County from the list of authorized casino locations, but the state challenge may invalidate the vote entirely.
Even if the amendment passes, it won’t affect the state’s three existing casinos. There is public polling data on voter sentiment, but financial support for the referendum significantly exceeds that of the opposition.
Little Change Expected in Georgia
Georgia’s legislature races hold little promise for gambling expansion. The state has consistently failed to pass gaming legislation, and the May primary results suggest that trend will continue. Only a small number of new legislators are guaranteed, and the balance of power in both chambers is likely to stay the same.
However, the internal Republican debate on gambling expansion may intensify after November.
Indiana Governor’s Race Could Open Doors for Expansion
In May, Senator Mike Braun secured the Indiana Republican gubernatorial nomination, while Jennifer McCormick ran unopposed for the Democrats. Neither prioritizes gambling, but both are open to expansion. Braun is favored to win, though not as decisively as in the primary.
Future gambling legislation depends on the legislature’s activity, as attitudes have tainted by past corruption. Regardless, the next governor likely won’t impede such bills from 2025 to 2029.
Missouri Holds Key Votes on Gambling Expansion
Missouri voters will decide on two major gambling issues this November: a new casino at the Lake of the Ozarks and a referendum on online sports betting. A failed lawsuit means the sports gambling measure will be on the ballot.
Republican Mike Kehoe leads Democrat Crystal Quade in the governor’s race, both backing online sports betting. The legislature’s partisan makeup could shift, potentially ending the Republican supermajority. However, gambling expansion has been hindered by Republican infighting.
Voters will decide on a sports betting amendment, but enabling legislation may face delays. Additionally, a Lake of the Ozarks casino proposal will be on the ballot.
New York’s Pro-Gaming Legislators Likely to Stay in Power
In New York, prominent gaming advocates Sen. Joseph Addabbo and Assembly member Gary Pretlow are expected to win reelection. While their victories don’t guarantee progress on online casino legislation, they’ll continue to play a major role in shaping the state’s gaming landscape, including efforts to license downstate casinos.
Virginia to Vote on Petersburg Casino
Voters in Petersburg, Virginia, will decide whether to approve a new casino in their city on November 5, following two failed attempts in Richmond. If approved, this would be the fifth casino authorized in the state under 2019 legislation, pending voter approval.
US Lotteries and Potential Changes
Voters in several states could also influence the future of lotteries. New York’s Sen. Addabbo remains a key proponent of the state’s online lottery, while Ohio continues to explore the option. Alabama, Utah, and Nevada are also in play, with efforts to introduce or expand
See you in November to Learn more
With the November 2024 elections coming up very soon, the outcomes in key states could either pave the way for gaming expansion or stall progress for years to come. With many pivotal decisions in the hands of voters, the future of gambling in the US hangs in the balance.
Will the election results push the industry forward, or will it remain locked in political limbo?
