Future of legal online gambling in Pennsylvania: FAQ and expert predictions.
At this point, we can try to predict the future of legal online gambling in Pennsylvania and answer some of the most frequently asked questions
1. How many new sites can we expect and who will operate them?
Currently, there are 12 legal casinos in Pennsylvania, therefore we can expect at least 12 websites in the near future. Some may argue that not all of the existing gambling license holders will take advantage of it, but it will be a really ridiculous step for gambling sharks to refuse such opportunity, considering that their NJ relatives even offer bonus money for online gambling.
Keep in mind that there is no clear restriction on the number of brands that can operate under a single online gambling license, therefore minor casinos can partner up with the sharks in order to clinch a part of the online gambling market.
Njnodposit prediction: there will be around 20 online gambling websites.
2. Who currently holds PA land-based casino licenses?
- Mohegan Sun
- SugarHouse
- Sands Bethlehem
- Harrah’s
- Hollywood
- Meadows
- Parx
- Lady Luck
- Rivers
- Valley Forge
- Mount Airy
- Presque Isle
We can expect these folks to be the first to clinch Pennsylvania’s online gambling licenses but they will also have to pay for their pole position.
3. What are Pennsylvania online gambling license fees?
- During the first 90 days, casinos will have to pay is $10 million for a bundle of 3 gambling licenses(either take it or leave it).
- After the “window closes” there is a 30-day window that will have $4 million per online gambling license but only available to the established casinos
- Afterward, any legal gaming entity can apply for the remaining license at the same $4 million per 1 license in each category.
4. Who is included in “legal gaming entity” definition
The bill rhetoric is redundant on this topic and specifies a lot of provisions that interested entities have to supply. It is clear that operators of legal land-based casinos in Pennsylvania fall under this category. However, what is clear is that in order to apply for a Pennsylvania online gambling license an entity does not have to operate a land-based casino in the state. Therefore as the 120-day window elapses, “newbies” are more than welcome to join the party.
5. Who will be able to play?
Everyone who is located within the borders of Pennsylvania and has reached the age of 21 will be able to enjoy online gambling. Nevertheless, H 271 bill restricts employees of land-based casinos and major employees of gambling platform providers from online gambling.
6. What games can we expect in Pennsylvania?
We can expect regular
online casino games including online slots, online table games, and
live poker. Probably live dealer games will be introduced as well. However, a peculiar taxation structure that taxes slot games more heavily than table games promises us some new hybrids that will satisfy slot lovers but will remain under the provision of table games or poker.
