Michigan Lottery: Level Up to $50K Grand Prize
The Michigan Lottery continues to be an innovator for online and is offering up some great games and promotions for May. Check ’em out right here!
NASCAR, Genius Sports Plan Live Betting Platform
Good news, gearheads: NASCAR has inked a deal that could bring live racing action—plus live bets—to a sportsbook near you. Could this be the sharp right turn that brings the races back?
Tennessee Becomes First Online-Only Sports-Betting State
Tennessee will become the first state offering only online and mobile sports betting, effective July 1. Governor Bill Lee (L.) said he’ll let the legislation become law without his signature. Tennessee has no casinos and there will be no retail kiosks or physical sportsbooks. Advanced technology will determine if players’ age and location.
Wynn Survives in Massachusetts
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission decided to punish Wynn Resorts for the sins of the father, but in the end allowed the company to retain its gaming license to open Encore Boston Harbor (l.) on June 23.
Wire Act Opinion Could Cost States $220 Million in Lottery Proceeds
The new opinion by the U.S. Justice Department on the federal wire act has put states with online lotteries in danger of losing at least $220 million in annual lottery profits according to an analysis by the Associated Press. Interstate lotteries such as Powerball and Mega Millions could also be affected. The opinion is currently being challenged in court by New Hampshire.
Study: ‘Loot Box’ Video Game Feature Like Gambling
A study by the University of British Columbia found that the “loot box” feature in modern video games generates behavior not unlike problem gambling.
FanDuel Develops Live Stream Sports Betting App
FanDuel has partnered with Switzerland’s Sportradar AG to develop an app that allows for in-game sports betting while players are watching the game live on their mobile device. The service has gone online in New Jersey and the company says it plans to introduce it in other U.S. markets. The app marks a first for sports betting in the U.S. and initially will offer betting on tennis and European soccer.
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.
