First Swiss Online Casinos On Track for July Launch
Switzerland may see a quartet of online casinos launch on July 1, a year after voters came out in favor of the nation’s new gaming law. Four bricks-and-mortar casinos will manage the online sites, including Grand Casino Baden (l.).
Caesars To Make MGM-Like Cuts
Strip hotel business was strong, and the company played lucky, and the result was a $50 million jump in net revenues in Caesars’ core market of Las Vegas. On the down side, labor costs this year are headed for an $80 million increase, and management says deep cuts are in the offing.
Florida, Seminoles Can’t Agree On Compact
Despite weeks of negotiations, the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe were unable to reach a compact agreement before the legislative session ended May 3. Under a settlement with former Governor Rick Scott, the tribe has continued to pay the state $350 million a year, but that agreement will expire May 31. House Speaker José Oliva (l.) says they will try again next year.
Indiana Gambling Bill Awaits Holcomb Signature
Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb (l.) is expected to sign a bill allowing Majestic Casino to move to downtown Gary. Owners Spectacle Entertainment would surrender Majestic’s second license, for a $40 million tax credit. If Vigo County voters approve, an operator would be selected to build a Terre Haute casino. The measure also would legalize sports betting.
Puerto Rico Looks to Betting for Relief
Storm-battered Puerto Rico has proposed online gaming as one solution to generate essential revenues in a bill presented by Governor Ricardo Rossello (l.). Hurricane Maria, which struck the island in late 2017, killed 3,000 people and caused billions of dollars in damage.
Harrah’s Philadelphia Debuts Poker Room
The new World Series of Poker room at Harrah’s Philadelphia completes a major renovation project at the casino, moving the poker operation to the main floor.
Pennsylvania to Launch Mobile Sports and iGaming July 15
Members of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board said at the board’s meeting last week that the state’s online gaming program will kick off July 15. There are currently no plans for intrastate compacts with other iGaming states.
New Jersey’s Lesniak Calls for Regulated Sports Betting Information
Former New Jersey state Senator Raymond Lesniak (l.)—a principal architect of the state’s fight to overturn a federal ban on sports betting—says that government regulation of sports betting information is needed. Lesniak said in a recent interview that regulation should be similar to the stock market to uncover unusual betting trends.
Scientific Games Launches SciPlay IPO
Scientific Games has launched the initial public offering of its social gaming business, putting 22 million shares of the company to be called SciPlay. The new company will include the company’s leading social games like JackpotParty.com (l.) website.
Indiana House Passes Sweeping Gambling Bill
In a 78-15 vote, the Indiana House passed the major gambling bill SB 552. The measure addresses moving a casino license from Gary to Terre Haute, legalizing sports betting (but not mobile wagering) and Governor Eric Holcomb’s flights on private aircraft. The measure now moves to a House-Senate conference committee where observers said changes are certain, according to sponsor Senator Jon Ford (l.).
Michigan Lawmaker To Introduce Online Gambling Measure
In addition to a sports betting bill, Michigan state Rep. Brandt Iden is sponsoring the Michigan Lawful Internet Gaming Act. The legislation had bipartisan support last year but was vetoed by former Governor Rick Snyder. Iden said he hopes Governor Gretchen Whitmer will sign the measure into law by this summer.
Delaware North Sues Over Sportsbook Closures
Delaware North’s two West Virginia casino sportsbooks have been unable to take bets since March 6 due to a dispute between Miomni Gaming and a third party supplier. Delaware North sued Miomni, claiming it “fraudulently misrepresented ownership of a key part of the BetLucky (l.) sports wagering platform and breached the companies’ joint venture contract.”
