2024 was a headline-grabbing year in the US (there was some kind of election, apparently), but here at PokerNews, we’re focused on the stories that really matter. Specifically, which states are poised to legalize online casino gambling next?
No new states joined the current seven that had already embraced iGaming by 2024, but what are the odds of expansion in 2025? Let’s dive into what we know so far.
Want to skip ahead? Click below…
Online Casinos in the US: Current Legal Situation in 2025
Before looking into what’s next, let’s take a moment to evaluate where things stand for online casinos in the US as of January 2025. In a nutshell, whether you can legally play at online casinos depends entirely on the state you call home.
Here’s a quick rundown—and a fancy map below—showing where online casinos are currently legal and where they’re not:
Where Have Real Money Online Casinos Been Legalized?
Legal in some states: I like to call them The Magnificent Seven (though, admittedly, I might be the only one): New Jersey, Delaware, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Connecticut, and Rhode Island—the pioneers of legalized iGaming.
In these states, online casinos are fully regulated and legal, with some of the world’s biggest names, like FanDuel Casino, PokerStars Casino, BetMGM Casino, and more, offering their platforms to players in these regions.
Illegal in most states: In most other states, including larger states like California and New York, legal online casinos are unavailable, but it’s important to note that the legal landscape varies widely and continues to evolve.
Our handy US online casino map provides a clear, up-to-date snapshot of the legal status in each state:
For a deeper dive into playing real money casino games in the US, we recommend checking out our comprehensive US Online Casino Guide.
If real money gaming isn’t an option in your state, head over to our section on social casinos to explore accessible and entertaining alternatives.
Anything Else to Know?
Well, unlike an episode of Suits, it turns out the law isn’t as simple as a quick courtroom drama, and gambling law, in particular, can be a real puzzle. With that in mind, here are a few additional points to be aware of:
- Even legal states have their own rules: While some states have legalized online casinos, each has its own unique set of regulations and age restrictions, which can vary from state to state.
- Avoid the risks of illegal gambling: While black market gambling may exist in states where online casinos are prohibited, it’s a dangerous game. Engaging in illegal gambling can lead to hefty fines or worse.
- Always check state laws before you play: Whether you’re playing at a real money casino or a social casino site, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your state before you get started.
Online Casino Legalization 2025: States to Watch
As we look ahead to the rest of 2025, the iGaming landscape is buzzing with speculation about which states might take the leap into legalizing online casinos.
While momentum is growing in several states, even in a non-election year, the path forward remains filled with legal and political challenges.
In this section, we’ll highlight five states that are showing promise for legalizing online casinos in the year ahead and examine the key factors that could shape their decisions.
Ready for even more US online casino content?
Check out our exclusive US Online Casino Guide to find the best casino sites, mobile apps, and the biggest casino bonuses available!
Online Casinos in Maryland
Kicking off 2025, Maryland is emerging as a state to watch in the push for online casino legalization.
Delegate Vanessa Atterbeary is renewing her efforts with House Bill 17 (HB 17), which she has introduced before but didn’t get through the Senate last year. The revised bill aims to regulate online gambling under the Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission (MSLGCC) and would allow existing video lottery and sports betting operators to apply for online casino licenses.
A key part of the proposal is that revenue generated from online gambling would be directed toward funding educational programs and supporting the state’s vital horse racing industry. The bill also paves the way for multi-state internet gaming agreements, suggesting that online poker could be included in the future.
Despite facing some opposition, particularly concerns about its potential impact on retail casinos, HB 17 presents a solid proposal. With its continued momentum, Maryland is shaping up to be a state to keep a close eye on in the coming year.
Online Casinos in Virginia
Next on the horizon is Virginia, where the potential for legalizing online casinos is gaining traction.
Ahead of 2025, Senator Mamie Locke has pre-filed a bill to legalize online casinos, including live dealer games. The Democratic senator’s proposal would introduce a 15% tax on operators’ adjusted gross revenue and enable retail casinos to apply for digital licenses.
Each casino could partner with up to three online platforms, each required to have its own distinct brand. A second brand would be permitted for online poker platforms. The bill also includes important responsible gambling provisions, such as the prominent display of helplines on gambling sites.
The bill is slated for consideration during Virginia’s legislative session from January 8 to February 22, 2025. While it still faces hurdles in the legislative process, iGaming supporters are hopeful that Virginia could soon follow other states, particularly after the successful launch of online sports betting in the state.
Online Casinos in Louisiana
As Louisiana and New Orleans gear up to host Super Bowl LIX, the state finds itself at the center of another major conversation: the future of online casinos.
Following the legalization of online sports betting in 2022, advocates argue that regulating online casinos is the next logical step, citing the success of other states in generating substantial revenue and vital tax contributions.
Compounding the urgency is Louisiana’s thriving black market for online casinos. According to the American Gaming Association (AGA), an estimated $4.6 billion is wagered illegally each year— with much of this money tied to organized crime and money laundering, which supporters argue underscores the pressing need for regulation.
However, opposition remains strong, with concerns about the impact on land-based casinos and the risks of gambling addiction, particularly given the easy access to online gaming through smartphones.
Under Senate Resolution 149, passed in June 2024, lawmakers are set to continue exploring iGaming’s potential in the coming months, weighing its economic promise against its social and industry challenges.
Online Casinos in Florida
Florida could be on the cusp of a major shift in its online gambling landscape, fueled by growing speculation that the Seminole Tribe may advocate for online casino legalization in 2025.
As the dominant player in Florida’s gambling industry, the Tribe has already set a precedent with its successful sports betting rollout, paving the way for what could be an ambitious expansion into the online casino market.
This potential move, which would bring digital platforms for slots, table games, and more to Floridians, promises significant economic benefits, generating substantial revenue for both the Tribe and the state.
However, the path forward is anything but simple. Navigating a complex regulatory process and addressing public concerns about problem gambling remain critical challenges. Despite these obstacles, Florida is a state to watch closely as the conversation around online casinos intensifies in 2025.
Online Casinos in Illinois
Illinois might not have seen success with online gambling legislation in 2024, but the groundwork laid by three proposed bills signals ongoing interest in the state for online casino expansion.
House Bill 2239 (HB 2239) aimed to establish online casino gaming with a 15% tax rate, while a second proposal, House Bill 2320 (HB 2320), suggested a slightly lower 12% rate. Although none gained traction and won’t carry into the 2025 session, the state’s history with gambling regulation suggests there is potential for iGaming supporters in the Prairie State.
Illinois has pioneered legal sports betting, launching retail wagering in March 2020 and digital platforms just months later. The Illinois Gaming Board has also issued 16 retail casino licenses and oversees a regulated video lottery terminal market, putting it among a select few states with such a framework.
With an established gambling infrastructure and a track record of exploring new revenue streams, online gambling could represent the next logical step for Illinois. While the road forward remains uncertain, Illinois remains a state to watch as discussions about expanding online gaming continue to evolve.
Our Verdict: Will Online Casino Legalization Expand in 2025?
Predicting the future, especially where politics is concerned, is a tricky game. If I had that ability, I’d have joined the Polymarket pros, backed Donald Trump’s moneyline, and be sipping a Piña Colada on a beach instead of writing this article.
That said, in this author’s opinion, an expansion of online casino legalization in 2025 seems unlikely. While this year might set the stage with crucial political and legal groundwork, the path to iGaming legalization has historically moved at a glacial pace, and no state appears ready to make an imminent leap.
So, which state will be next, even if not in 2025? As with anything in life, follow the money.
States grappling with budget deficits, particularly in the wake of the post-COVID economic slump, and those that have already embraced online sports betting are the most likely contenders. With digital gambling frameworks already in place and increasing pressure to shore up tax revenue, online casino legalization may soon prove too tempting for many states to resist.
Alternatives to Real Money Casinos in the US
If you’re in a state where real money casino gambling isn’t yet available, or if it looks like legalization is still a way off, trying out free casino games at a social casino or sweepstakes casino can be a fantastic alternative.
We’ve gathered some key information about these platforms, along with our handpicked recommendations for the best social casino sites:
Social & Sweepstakes Casinos
Legal in Most States: Social casinos typically use ‘coins’ or ‘tokens’ instead of real money, which makes them legal in many states. While players can’t wager real cash, some sites allow you to exchange accumulated coins for actual money rewards, once certain conditions are met.
Less Regulation: Social and sweepstakes casinos generally face fewer regulations than real-money online casinos. However, it’s always essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of any site or app before you start playing.
Some of our top picks for social casinos include Chumba Casino, Luckyland Slots, Pulsz Casino, and Slotomania. If you’re into online poker, platforms like Global Poker and WSOP also offer free-to-play versions worth checking out.
Disclaimer: any promotions presented on this page were correct and available at the time of writing. Promotions can change regularly. We encourage all users to check the promotion displayed matches the most current promotion available by clicking through to the operator welcome page. Please read the terms and conditions carefully before you accept any promotional welcome offer.
