Last year, North Carolina’s Republican leaders failed to progress a commercial casino legalization measure amid internal disagreements. As it turns out, the same struggles could prevent the party from making any meaningful advancement this year as well.

To make matters worse, the clock is ticking and approximately a third of the legislative session has already passed. This year’s session is set to run through the end of July, providing casino supporters with two more months to push for the legalization of commercial casino gaming.

As mentioned, the expansion of the state’s gambling industry could prove to be an uphill battle because of disagreements between GOP leaders. House Speaker Tim Moore, who used to support Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger’s casino efforts, pointed out that the recent discussions were marred in controversy and could prove to be a tricky challenge.

According to Moore, the heated casino talks alienated some supporters and could prevent any meaningful advancement this session. During a recent discussion of a video lottery terminal bill, Moore emphasized that hard feelings about the conclusion of the last session still persist and could overshadow the actual VLT discussions.

Berger’s Deal with the Cordish Companies Alienated GOP Members

For context, Berger alienated many House Republicans by striking what many believed to be a backroom deal with the Cordish Companies during the legalization process. Under the agreement, Berger would have given the Maryland-based casino powerhouse each of the three casino opportunities in North Carolina.

While many customers in the state expressed their support for the legalization of commercial casino gaming, Berger’s actions convinced some Republicans, Moore included, to drop their support for the legalization.

Berger eventually acknowledged his legislative defeat and promised to never try to push for casino gaming in North Carolina, instead allowing the House to initiate the process when it’s ready.

In other news North Carolina recently launched legal sports betting, joining a list of more than three dozen states. A month ago, Gov. Roy Cooper commented on a tax change proposal, expressing his support for the measure.

Cooper also weighed in on the potential unexpected tax burden for bettors in the state, explaining that it is not fair for local gamblers to pay taxes on winnings without the possibility of deducting losses.

The post NC’s Casino Legalization Prospects Are Bleak amid Waning Support appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Interblock, a leading gaming technology provider, teams up with Grupo Orenes, Unidesa, and Covimatic, enhancing support for its technology across Spain.

In a move to expand its reach, Interblock has entered into partnerships with Grupo Orenes, Unidesa, and Covimatic. These collaborations will see the three companies operating as Interblock’s Certified Service Providers across various regions in Spain.

Enhanced Technical Support

Under these partnerships, Grupo Orenes, Unidesa, and Covimatic will be responsible for providing technical support and services for Interblock machines after their installation at different properties.

Interblock’s focus on providing top-notch support reflects its commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences to its customers.

The partnerships come at a crucial time as Interblock prepares to introduce its Electronic Table Games (ETGs) in Spain, including the Black Pearl Roulette machines, which are already making their way into the market.

The Black Pearl Series offers standalone roulette machines that can accommodate up to ten players simultaneously, providing an immersive gaming experience.

In addition to the Black Pearl Roulette machines, Interblock has also tailored its Dual Roulette and Universal Cabinet Golden Ball Roulette to cater to the specific preferences of the Spanish market.

The Golden Ball Roulette, in particular, features the proprietary G-O-L-D side bet option, allowing players to bet on each of the four letters for the chance to win multipliers of up to 250x.

Furthermore, Interblock will supply Spanish casinos with products from its Smart Pit product line, including Dual Live Roulette, Live Blackjack, and Live Baccarat tables.

The Smart Pit line represents one of Interblock’s newer initiatives, blending live dealers with automated technology to offer a seamless gaming experience.

Interblock’s entry into the Spanish market received a significant boost when it obtained licensing for Spain in August 2023. This allowed the company to establish a service center and warehouse in the country.

Key Markets Licensing

Interblock Spain, the company’s regional arm, also secured licenses for several key regions in Spain, including Andalucía, Canarias, Pais Vasco, La Rioja, Castilla la Mancha, and Navara.

John Connelly, the Global CEO of Interblock, expressed his enthusiasm about the company’s expansion in Spain, stating, “Our commitment to Spain is steadfast and ever-growing.”

“With more than 10,000 seats in operation across the country, these new licenses don’t just expand our reach — they emphasize our relentless pursuit of providing unparalleled service to our esteemed clientele.”

Interblock’s strategic partnerships with Grupo Orenes, Unidesa, and Covimatic underscore its dedication to delivering exceptional gaming experiences in the Spanish market.

Source: “Interblock partners with Grupo Orenes, Unidesa and Covimatic for Spanish markets”, Gambling Insider, May 6, 2024.

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In a move that could reshape the landscape of Queens, Councilman Francisco Moya has thrown his weight behind Mets owner Steve Cohen’s ambitious $8 billion plan to erect a sprawling casino complex adjacent to Citi Field.

Francisco Moya Endorses ‘Metropolitan Park’ Casino Plan, Lauding Benefits for Queens

Moya, representing the communities surrounding Flushing Meadow Park and Willets Point, voiced his enthusiastic endorsement of the project, dubbed “Metropolitan Park,” emphasizing its potential benefits for both Queens and New York City, reported The New York City Post. Referring to the proposed gaming center, hotel, and music venue, Moya stated that he believed that the project was in the best interest of both Queens and New York City. 

The councilman’s endorsement marks a significant development for Cohen’s endeavor, which hinges on legislative approval to repurpose the land around Citi Field, currently designated as parkland. 

However, not all political players are aligned with Moya’s stance. State Sen. Jessica Ramos, another key figure whose support is crucial for the project’s advancement, remains unconvinced. Ramos, critical of Cohen’s team’s lobbying tactics, has refrained from endorsing the initiative.

Moya, known for his fervent support of development projects, hailed the casino-entertainment complex as an “economic engine” that would attract visitors year-round, enhancing the fan experience for sports enthusiasts frequenting Citi Field and the USTA Tennis Center, as well as supporters of the New York City Football Club.

Cohen’s Casino Project Gains Advantage Amid Regulatory Delays and Political Support

Despite uncertainties surrounding regulatory approvals, industry insiders suggest that the delay in awarding new casino licenses in the New York City area until late 2025 could work in Cohen’s favor, affording him more time to consolidate support in Albany. Cohen’s purported amicable relations with Mayor Eric Adams and Gov. Kathy Hochul further bolster his position in the high-stakes casino competition.

Cohen’s project is just one among several ambitious proposals vying for a slice of the lucrative casino market in New York City. Competing ventures include proposals from prominent entities such as The Related Companies, Wynn, SL Green, Caesars, Roc Nation, and Thor Equities, among others, aiming to establish their foothold in strategic locations across the city.

As the debate over the future of Queens’ landscape intensifies, Moya’s endorsement underscores the complex interplay of politics, economics, and community interests shaping the trajectory of urban development in New York City. Whether Cohen’s vision for Metropolitan Park materializes into a reality remains contingent on navigating a web of regulatory hurdles and securing elusive political backing.

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Mississippi gambling enthusiasts are out of luck as Republican representatives decided not to put forward a bill that would have allowed a casino in Jackson. According to them, the bill lacked sufficient support but that doesn’t mean things won’t change in the future.

Committee Chair Trey Lamar, who filed the bill Monday, explained that representatives of the Republican Party privately discussed the matter and concluded that the bill would not be able to gain enough votes. However, Lamar added that those who hope to see a casino in Jackson shouldn’t give up just yet.

For reference, Mississippi currently allows commercial casinos to only be constructed on the Gulf Coast or along the Mississippi River. Currently, there are 12 casinos on the Gulf Coast and 14 along the Mississippi River. In addition to commercial properties, there are also three tribal casinos operated by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians across the state.

Lamar’s bill would have changed that, creating opportunities for investment in gaming right in the heart of the state. Under his bill, an existing licensed operator would have been allowed to construct and operate a casino in the Mississippi capital, only 1 mile away from the Capitol building.

A New Casino Would Disrupt the Power Balance

For reference, Mississippi’s House is currently dominated by the Republicans. However, the Democratic Party has a lot of members who are opposed to the opening of a casino in Jackson, citing economic concerns.

Rep. Robert Johnson, leader of the House Democrats, believes that a casino in Jackson would disrupt the power balance, hurting Mississippi River casinos. This sentiment was echoed by Democratic Rep. Oscar Denton and Republican Rep. Kevin Ford, who said that their city of Vicksburg would likely get the worst of it.

Vicksburg, for reference, houses the nearest casino to Jackson.

Johnson explained that coastal casinos will likely adapt but “there is no way anybody else could survive” the opening of a casino in the Mississippi capital.

Speaking of coastal casinos, Mississippi’s Senate recently approved the Tidelands Bill, which came as a response to the controversial approval of RW Development’s casino in Biloxi. The measure, however, raised concerns among coastal leaders and the future of local casinos.

The post Mississippi Reps to Kill Jackson Casino Bill Amid Weak Support appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Survey USA, a professional polling firm, was contracted by WRAL News to see how consumers in North Carolina feel about Las Vegas-style casino resorts. As it turns out, the people in the state, who just received online betting, are strongly supportive of the potential legalization of commercial casino resorts.

Survey USA polled 850 adults and learned that 55% of them support the creation of casinos in rural parts of North Carolina. For comparison, only 28% of the respondents remained strongly or somewhat opposed to casino gaming. The rest of the respondents remained neutral.

The survey also understood that adult men were slightly more likely to support casino gaming. Survey USA pointed out that 61% of the male respondents and 65% of the respondents aged 35-49 supported Vegas-style gaming.

Survey USA’s poll echoes the results of a recent survey by Meredith Poll from the private women’s liberal arts college in Raleigh, which found that 57% of voters support commercial casinos.

Not All Lawmakers Approve of Casino Gaming

Casino supporters in North Carolina have been trying to get casino gaming legalized for a while. While the local constitution does not prohibit gambling and therefore no constitutional changes are needed, casinos remain a point of contention.

For reference, North Carolina currently boasts three tribal casinos. The state recently launched online sports betting, expanding its gaming industry.

In 2023, Senator Phil Berger tried to get casino gaming launched, envisioning three commercial properties in Anson, Nash and Rockingham. His effort had attracted the interest of The Cordish Companies but ultimately failed.

Berger argues that casino resorts are more than mere gaming properties. He refers to them as entertainment districts, arguing that they go beyond gambling.

Republican lawmakers critiqued Berger’s effort, saying that gaming expansion should be considered separately and not as a part of the state’s budget plan.

In the meantime, supporters of Vegas-style gaming will have another shot at getting commercial casinos legalized as the 2024 legislative session looms. While many argue that casino resorts would provide a strong boost to rural economies, some influential lawmakers argue that the state should focus on other initiatives to develop the rural ecosystems instead.

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For nearly a decade, lawmakers such as Rep. Dina Titus have continuously urged the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to raise the existing threshold on slot winnings that require a W-2G tax form. The current regulation requires anyone with winnings of $1,200 or more to submit a W-2G tax form. This policy was established back in 1977, a time when Nevada was the only state where gambling was available.

But much has changed since then, including the statewide expansion of casino gambling via commercial and tribal operators across the United States. As a result, the existing regulation creates a burden not only for the IRS but for casino operators and their players, Titus said.

Titus, along with Rep. Guy Reschenthaler introduced the Shifting Limits on Thresholds Act, a legislative proposal that called to update the tax threshold for slot winnings, increasing it from $1,200 to $5,000. The proposal marked the latest effort of lawmakers to increase the threshold, updating the policy.

In November, the IRS Advisory Council (IRSAC) supported the proposed change to raise the tax threshold on slot winnings. It suggested the threshold for the required W-2G tax form to be raised to $5,800, which is even higher than the Representatives’ proposal. Considering this support, Titus and Reschenthaler urged the IRS once again to update the policy earlier this month.

In a recent interview for the Nevada Independent, Titus revealed that the policy update can be completed via a change in the regulations without a requirement for legislation. She encouraged Danny Werfel, IRS’ commissioner, to follow the recommendation of the IRS Advisory Council. Rep. Titus explained that it looks like the proposed legislation helped push forward the whole process.

AGA Supports the Proposed Change

The proposed change is important as it will reduce the burden on the customers and the gambling industry. What’s more, the IRS will have much fewer W-2G tax forms to process, considering the potential raising of the threshold. The American Gaming Association (AGA), the premier national trade group for the US casino industry, also showed support for the proposed change.

“The antiquated slot tax threshold creates unnecessary burdens for consumers, casino operators and the IRS.“

Bill Miller, CEO of the American Gaming Association

AGA’s CEO, Bill Miller, called the current policy “antiquated,” saying that it brings unnecessary burdens for the IRS, the consumers and the casino industry. “The AGA commends Representatives Reschenthaler and Titus and other Congressional leaders for their dedicated efforts to modernize this long-outdated policy and join them in urging Commissioner Werfel to raise the threshold,” he explained.

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The 2024 legislative session in Alabama will focus on a number of issues, including election voting, education and gaming. State Gov. Kay Ivey issued her 2024 State of the State Address, highlighting a number of important initiatives that will be among the priorities for lawmakers this year. In her State of the State Address, she showed support for an initiative that “prohibits ballot harvesting” in Alabama.

Additionally. Gov. Ivey supported an education proposal and spoke about the importance of resolving the state’s issue with gambling. Speaking about a current proposal that paves the way for the expansion of gambling in Alabama, she expressed hope that lawmakers will review it further. What’s more, Gov. Ivey vowed to monitor the progress of the proposal.

Currently, a proposal sponsored by Rep. Chris Blackshear calls for the expansion of gambling in Alabama. In reality, to do this, two different bills are needed: one that would amend the state’s constitution and another to establish gambling activities.

“This year when Alabamians make their way to the ballot box, I hope they will be voting on another issue: Gaming. I believe the current proposal being contemplated by the Legislature is good for Alabama, and I will be carefully watching it move through the process,“

wrote Gov. Kay Ivey

The Bill Will Help in the Fight against Illegal Gambling

Per the current draft bill about the gambling expansion, the state would authorize the development of casino gambling at different locations, as well as the establishment of a lottery. The legalization of online sports betting is also part of the proposal.

The last time residents in Alabama voted on a gambling proposal was more than two decades ago. Since then, different proposals have not gained much traction. While the new bill will be reviewed by lawmakers, its future remains uncertain. This is because its success is contingent on a majority approval from the state’s Senate and House along with a green light from Alabama’s voters.

According to Gov. Ivey, the proposal will help in the fight against illegal gambling. At the same time, she said, the bill would help deliver regulated forms of gambling and this includes lottery as well. “Thank you to Speaker Ledbetter and his leadership team for their hard work on this. Now is the time for Alabama voters to have another say on this issue,” added Gov. Ivey.

The gambling proposal still has a long way ahead of it. Yet, the support from the Governor sends a clear signal to the lawmakers about the importance of the matter.

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Betfred, the renowned UK-based bookmaker, has extended its partnership with The Jockey Club, further solidifying its support for The Derby Festival, set at Epsom Downs. The renewed collaboration secures Betfred’s involvement with The Jockey Club until at least 2026 and should be welcome news for fans of the sport.

The Two Parties Strengthen Their Collaboration

Betfred and the Jockey Club, the UK’s largest commercial horse racing organization owning 15 of the country’s famous racecourses, first announced their collaboration in April 2023. The deal saw the leading independent bookmaker in the UK become the new sponsor of The Oaks and The Derby at Epsom Downs, setting the stage for future collaboration.

According to the newest sponsorship deal, starting in 2024, the iconic two-day flat race will officially be known as The Betfred Derby Festival as the operator strengthens its commitment to one of the most prestigious events in the racing calendar. Fred Done, Betfred Group chairman, emphasized the company’s eagerness to elevate the festival’s prominence.

We are delighted to further develop our support of the Betfred Derby Festival and… keep the fixture at the forefront of world racing.

Fred Done, Betfred Group Chairman

The partnership extension secures Betfred’s involvement with The Jockey Club until at least 2026. In addition to the naming rights for the festival, Betfred’s agreement includes bolstering their support for the event by backing an extra race on each day of the Festival. This augmentation brings the total sponsored races across the two days to six, enhancing the racing experience for participants and spectators.

Horseracing Remains at the Core of Betfred’s Business

Betfred, founded in Salford in 1967 by Fred Done, has grown into the largest independent bookmaker in the UK with 1,400 high street shops. Beyond its significant presence in the UK, the company operates globally, expanding into South Africa and the USA. The operator’s willingness to expand into new verticals has also bolstered its considerable momentum.

This newest collaboration extension follows Betfred’s sponsorship involvement in major racing events, including The Oaks and The Derby at Epsom, demonstrating its continuous commitment to supporting British horseracing. Amy Starkey, managing director at Jockey Club Racecourses, also hailed the extended partnership as a significant development, expressing enthusiasm for the future collaboration.

Our relationship with Betfred spans many years and many major races, and we are delighted to be strengthening our partnership at Epsom Downs.

Amy Starkey, Jockey Club Racecourses managing director

The extension of the partnership between Betfred and The Jockey Club underscores a shared dedication to enhancing the quality and prestige of The Derby Festival, promising an exciting future for racing enthusiasts worldwide. It also further bolsters the operator’s leading position in this vertical, serving as an exciting start to 2024.

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In a significant boost for the proposed casino development at Lake of the Ozarks, the Miller County Commission has unanimously endorsed the initiative led by Osage River Gaming and Convention (ORGC) in collaboration with Bally’s Corporation. This latest show of support comes as the local gaming group strives to bypass the General Assembly by garnering signatures for an initiative petition slated for the statewide November 2024 ballot.

Commission Unanimously Backs Lake Casino, Surprised by Tom Wright’s Endorsement

The commission’s decision follows a brief public comment session, where even former longtime Presiding Commissioner Tom Wright, known for his reservations about the casino, conceded that the county would benefit from the development, albeit not to the extent touted by proponents, reported KRMS Radio. Wright’s opinion underscores the ongoing debate about the economic impact of the proposed casino on the Lake area.

ORGC aims to establish the casino in the vicinity of the quarry near the Osage River Bridge, utilizing a portion of the 90-acre Eagles’ Landing Phase 4 property. This collaboration with Bally’s Corporation, as outlined in a recent letter to the City of Lake Ozark, reflects the gaming group’s commitment to the project’s success.

The casino project, if ultimately approved, will not be a traditional riverboat casino, as ORGC is not obligated to adhere to this specific format under Missouri law. The state’s regulations allow for casinos to be built on the shore, provided they meet certain requirements. Eagles’ Landing Phase 4 falls within the 1,000 feet limit of the Osage River floodplain, complying with the legal framework.

ORGC’s Innovative Vision Redefines Lake of the Ozarks Entertainment

The proposed development goes beyond just the casino, with ORGC envisioning the utilization of approximately 20 acres for the gaming facility and the remaining space dedicated to a hotel, convention center, restaurants, and shops. This comprehensive approach aligns with the evolving landscape of casino establishments, moving away from the traditional riverboat model.

Importantly, the local endorsement received by ORGC is distinct from the efforts of Osage Nation Gaming group, which is still pursuing approval for a separate casino in Lake Ozark, despite facing resistance from the city. The city’s main concern revolves around the potential lack of state regulation and taxation for this alternative casino proposal.

As both gaming groups navigate the complex landscape of approvals, the local community remains engaged in discussions, weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks of these contrasting casino projects for the picturesque Lake of the Ozarks region. The coming months are poised to be crucial as stakeholders await further developments in this unfolding saga.

The post Local Support Grows for ORGC and Bally’s Lake Area Casino appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Amid campaign finance disclosures, a donation of $500 from NOVABizPAC to Delegate Wren Williams (R-Stuart), a staunch advocate of January’s casino bill, has brought attention to potential links between the political arena and casino development. These revelations have prompted significant public scrutiny as industry stakeholders employ all possible measures to secure an advantage in the competitive gambling landscape.

A Successful Casino Bill Can Be a Goldmine for Developers

The contribution from NOVABizPAC, the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce’s political action committee, to Williams’ campaign surfaced in finance reports filed with the State Board of Elections. Nick Clemente, the lobbyist who authorized the donation, has ties to Christopher Clemente, CEO of Comstock Companies. This connection raises eyebrows as Comstock Companies expressed interest in erecting a casino near the Wiehle-Reston East Metro Station.

For Comstock to proceed with their plans, the Virginia General Assembly needed to approve legislation enabling the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to initiate a referendum for voters to decide on the casino’s fate. In January, Delegate Williams and State Senator Dave Marsden (D-Burke) introduced almost identical bills (HB 2499/SB 1523) to grant the Board of Supervisors extended authority.

Campaign finance records also revealed that Williams received $500 from the chamber and a $2,500 contribution from Christopher Clemente, with the total sum from Clemente’s donations amounting to $12,500 for Williams’ 2023 campaign. Furthermore, former and current Comstock employees contributed $29,525 to Williams between 1 January and 30 May.

Lobbying Efforts Remain a Staple Industry Tool

Questions persist regarding Williams’ motivations for introducing the casino-related legislation. Marsden had earlier mentioned being approached by developers with relevant properties, although he later claimed ignorance about the specific referendum bill presented by Williams. However, piling coincidences cast doubt on these statements, especially given Williams’ proactive approach.

The politician has been a vocal supporter of Nick Clemente, urging voters to rally behind his lobbying efforts. A video on Williams’ Facebook page shows the delegate position Williams as an advocate for critical issues within the community, emphasizing the other man’s dedication to safety and protection. Williams also praised Clemente on X (formerly Twitter), dispelling doubts about their affiliation.

It was fun knocking on doors yesterday in the beautiful fall weather for Nick Clemente in Northern Virginia.

Delegate Wren Williams on X

The interconnectedness between campaign donations, lobbying, and legislative actions concerning casino-related bills has raised concerns regarding the integrity and transparency of political processes surrounding large-scale development projects. The implications of these financial connections have raised substantial public scrutiny, particularly concerning their influence on legislative decisions and the interests they represent.

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