As of 2025, nearly 40 states across the US have legalized online sports betting, leaving fewer than a dozen that have yet to pass legislation. In contrast, the expansion of online casino gaming, or iGaming, which includes online casino offerings such as slots and table games, remains limited to just seven US states.
Recent studies indicate a cautious approach for the future of iGaming legislation. According to a recent report released by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming (EKG), only one state is expected to legalize online casino gaming over the next few years: Florida. However, Floridians shouldn’t get their hopes up just yet.
Legislative Trends Favor Tax Increases Over Expansion
EKG’s report also suggests that lawmakers are more inclined to increase taxes on existing online sports betting operations than to introduce new forms of online gambling. The report notes that online casino gaming continues to face resistance in state legislatures, where it is often viewed unfavorably or as a threat to brick-and-mortar casinos.
The report states: “The prevailing sentiment toward online casinos in statehouses remains negative. Given this climate, it is politically more feasible to raise taxes on an established industry like online sports betting than to authorize a new one.”
Despite the overall pessimistic approach, EKG projects that Florida may be the lone state to move forward with iGaming legalization by 2027. Legislative proposals currently under consideration, HB953 and S1404, both aim to broaden the exclusivity of the Seminole Tribe and Hard Rock Bet from sports betting to include online casino gaming. Previous iGaming legalization attempts have failed, so it is unlikely that either bill will become law.
Barriers to Legalization
Resistance from traditional brick-and-mortar casinos poses a significant challenge to the expansion of iGaming. Many domestic operators fear that online platforms could hurt their bottom line. Additionally, public health advocates and problem gambling support organizations have raised concerns about the accessibility of online gambling via mobile devices, citing increased calls for help in states like Florida and Kentucky following the rollout of mobile sports betting.
Currently, iGaming is available in only seven states: Rhode Island (not yet operational), Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. While momentum for broader legalization remains slow, Florida’s potential entry into the space could signal a shift in the national landscape.
Can I Gamble Online From My State?
Despite the lack of state legislation, online casinos operating from offshore are available in every US state. Mainly due to a lack of federal laws, online casinos have been accepting players across the USA since the late 1990s. However, some sites have opted out of select markets, leaving the industry confusing for players at best.