Author: IGP Staff

PA iGaming Rule Based on Myth

Online Poker Report published an article revealing why a restriction in the Pennsylvania online gaming law was based on myths that have been debunked in legal iGaming jurisdictions. The iGaming Lounge in Resorts Atlantic City (l.) was cited as driving business for both the online casino and the land-based property.

Michigan Online Gambling Bill Awaits Action

State Rep. Brandt Iden’s (l.) Lawful Internet Gaming Act passed House and Senate committees and now awaits consideration by the full chambers. The measure would legalize and regulate online gambling through the three Detroit casinos and tribal casinos if their compacts are amended. Operators would pay a 10 percent tax on gross gaming revenue.

Integrity Fee Challenged as States Advance Sports Betting Bills

The 1 percent “integrity fee” promoted by the NBA and MLB, which experts said actually is a 20 percent cut of all sports book revenue. One expert called the proposal “short sighted” and said leagues should instead partner with states to create the best benefits for all. Meanwhile, sports betting bills have moved in several states, some with, some without the fee. Dr. Laila Mintas (l.), deputy president of SportRadar, said the fee would make it difficult for operators to profit.

NBA Denies Accusations that eSports Tryouts Were Rigged

eSports forums are reporting that many players who tried out for the NBA’s new eSports league feel the competition was rigged. The tryouts were for the NBA 2K league, which whittled down 12,000 applicants to 250 players. But when those 250 were named, many felt the league was showing favoritism to certain players. The NBA denied the charges and said that NBA franchises were not involved in deciding on the 250.

LVS to Sell Sands Bethlehem to Poarch Band

Las Vegas Sands Corporation has entered into an agreement with Alabama’s Poarch Band of Creek Indians to sell its Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem in Pennsylvania to the tribe for $1.3 billion. The Poarch Band operates three Class II casinos in Alabama and this will be its first venture into the commercial gaming space. LV Sands exits a non-core asset and escapes some challenging issues that have arisen in the state over the past year.

Wynn Resorts, Okada Bury the Hatchet

A $2.4 billion settlement has put an end to a long-running dispute over Wynn Resorts’s forced redemption of millions of shares Kazuo Okada once controlled. The deal is expected to help Wynn distance itself from the sexual misconduct allegations surrounding Steve Wynn and allow Wynn and ex-wife Elaine Wynn to divest their stock. But will it play in Massachusetts?

Florida Gambling Bills Fail Again

The Florida legislature last week failed to act on any gaming bills that were bing considered. The measure was an omnibus gambling bill that was being weighed as the legislative session was scheduled to end at midnight, Sunday, March 11. The bill included extending the 20-year Seminole compact, giving the tribe exclusive rights to blackjack (l.) and adding craps and roulette, in exchange for $3 billion over seven years.

Nevada Regulators Plan New Sexual Harassment Rules

The Wynn scandal has prompted the Gaming Control Board to get working on regulations to ensure licensees comply with federal and state standards for keeping employees safe. As a start Chairwoman Becky Harris (l.) says the board is distributing a checklist to help operators measure the strength of their existing anti-sexual harassment policies and procedures.

Atlantic City Mayor Advocates Pot Friendly Zones in the Resort

As the New Jersey legislature begins consideration of a bill to legalize marijuana sales, Atlantic City’s mayor is envisioning pot friendly zones in the resort as a way of stimulating the city’s economy. Mayor Frank Gilliam (l.) is considering a plan for recreational use of marijuana in “adult entertainment districts” as a way of attracting new tourists to the city.

Historical Horseracing Awaits Virginia Governor’s Signature

HB 1609 awaits the signature of Virginia Governor Ralph Northam (l.). Recently passed by the state Senate in a 31-9 vote, the bill would allow historical racing terminals at Colonial Downs, which closed in 2014. Revolutionary Racing of Chicago said it would invest up to $50 million in the facility if the machines are allowed.

Take a Look at NJ’s Most Popular Video Poker Games

New Jersey’s online casino sites are in love with video poker. Most sites offer half a dozen or more options for video poker, including games with wildcards, games that offer bonuses for hitting high hands and games that just add extra elements of fun. And, there are a lot of variations.