Delaware House To Vote On Online Gambling Bill

Delaware has quietly become one of the gambling leaders in the US. While other states are working on bringing casino resorts to their states, Delaware has moved on to online gambling and sports betting. This week, the House Gaming and Parimutuels Committee passed a bill that could change the face of gambling on the East Coast.

Delaware is one of the few states that opted out of a 1992 federal law prohibiting sports gambling. That opt-out allowed lawmakers in recent years to set up regulations for sports betting in which gamblers could place bets on football games. The bets had to be made in parlay fashion, but it was a start to a new gaming era in Delaware.

Now, legislators are looking to expand on that law. Governor Jack Markell is leading the push for expanded gambling, asking lawmakers to pass a bill that would allow slot machines in over 100 locations throughout the state. In addition, the law would also allow for sports betting at twenty additional locations.

"This is key to making sure that this industry stays competitive for the years to come," said State Finance Secretary Tom Cook.

Residents of Delaware are excited about the possibility of having casino gambling and sports betting in their neighborhoods.

"It's here, so we might as well make it as convenient as possible for Delaware residents to access the gambling halls," said Francis Hurkley, a 20-year resident of Delaware. "I wouldn't mind having a casino a little closer to my home. Right now, I have to travel about 40 miles, so a closer casino would be great for me and my friends."

The online aspect of the gaming bill is one that is being watched from around the US. Delaware could become the second state in the country to pass online gambling regulation laws behind Nevada. Delaware would get a leg up on other states such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York, all Northeastern states that have discussed possible Internet gaming options.

May 18, 2012
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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