Massachusetts to Propose Online Casino Legislation in 2025

Boston, MA — Massachusetts is poised to enter the online casino market, with legislation expected to be introduced early next year. State Representative David Muradian has announced plans to file a bill in January 2025, signaling the state's interest in exploring the potential for iGaming legalization.

Muradian, a Republican representing Grafton, sees online casinos as the next logical step for Massachusetts, which has already legalized traditional casinos, sports betting, and online lottery games. “We did casinos, we did sports wagering, we did iLottery. The logical progression is to look at how we can potentially legalize iGaming, especially when our neighboring states of Connecticut and Rhode Island are already doing it,” Muradian stated.

To craft the upcoming legislation, Muradian will draw on a model developed by the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS). Muradian is a member of the NCLGS committee working on this model, which aims to provide a comprehensive framework for states considering the legalization of iGaming.

“The NCLGS iGaming model legislation will be helpful in crafting legislation in the future, not just for the Commonwealth but for any state looking to grow revenue without going on the backs of taxpayers,” Muradian explained. The NCLGS is expected to finalize its model legislation at its December conference in New Orleans, which will then serve as a key reference for Massachusetts.

The recent authorization of an online lottery in Massachusetts could influence the state’s approach to iGaming. As part of the 2025 fiscal year budget, the state has greenlit the development of instant-win games that resemble online slots, a move that Muradian believes could set the stage for broader online casino offerings.

However, the introduction of iLottery also presents challenges. The Massachusetts Lottery, which plays a significant role in funding early childhood education and care programs, may resist the introduction of online casinos due to potential competition for revenue. The Lottery’s planned December 2025 launch of its online platform could delay the consideration of iGaming until the lottery is fully operational.

 

Challenges Ahead for Online Casino Legislation

Despite the potential for significant revenue, Muradian acknowledges that passing iGaming legislation could be a lengthy process. As a Republican in a Democrat-controlled legislature, he anticipates that his initial proposal will primarily serve to initiate discussions rather than immediately lead to legalization.

“I don’t know of any Democrats considering filing online casino legislation,” Muradian noted. “If there is another bill, I’ll reach out to the sponsor and see if we can work together.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration and building support across the aisle to advance the legislation.

Muradian also highlighted the state’s need for new revenue sources in the coming years. “Our revenues could be in some trouble,” he warned. “iGaming is a way to provide an alternative to make sure that when we balance the checkbooks, it’s not on the backs of hardworking taxpayers.”

 

Gaming is a way to provide an alternative to make sure that when we balance the checkbooks, it’s not on the backs of hardworking taxpayers.

Conclusions

Reflecting on the state’s previous experiences with legalizing sports betting, Muradian cautioned that the road to legal iGaming in Massachusetts might be slow. “Realistically, the process to pass iGaming could take a few years,” he said. “That’s OK, as I’m committed to starting the conversation in earnest.”

As Massachusetts begins this exploration into online casinos, Muradian’s forthcoming legislation is expected to spark significant debate, setting the stage for the state’s next major gaming initiative.