Pennsylvania Joins Multi-State Poker Pact

April 29, 2025 — Pennsylvania has officially joined the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), becoming the sixth U.S. state to align with the pact that allows online poker players to compete across state lines. The move is a significant step in the evolution of legal, regulated online poker in the United States and is expected to considerably boost player liquidity and operator revenue.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board confirmed that eligible operators can begin offering multi-state poker today, April 28, significantly expanding the player base for participating platforms. With over 12.9 million residents, Pennsylvania’s inclusion increases the available pool of online poker participants in MSIGA states by more than 50%.

By entering the agreement, Pennsylvania joins the ranks of New Jersey, Nevada, Delaware, West Virginia, and Michigan. The MSIGA was initially formed to address the liquidity challenges of state-based poker markets by allowing shared player pools, making games more competitive and prize pools more lucrative.

Governor Josh Shapiro, who signed off on the agreement last week, framed the move as a strategic one for both economic and social benefit. “This is a common-sense step to support hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians, grow our economy and bring in more revenue to support our schools, our seniors, our small businesses and more,” Shapiro stated.

The development is expected to give a major boost to platforms already active in multiple MSIGA jurisdictions, such as WSOP.com and PokerStars. Industry analysts predict a surge in user activity and tournament participation, which had previously been stymied by limited in-state pools.

National Expansion in iGaming Continues

The move comes amid a week of rapid developments across the North American gaming landscape.

In Washington, D.C., Allwyn North America launched its first batch of games with the DC Lottery. The debut includes Super Cash Bolt, a customized offering in the Cash Bolt series, distributed via Instant Win Gaming’s platform. “Our players expect high-quality gaming experiences,” said Eugene Vlasenko, interim executive director of the DC Lottery. “This rollout helps us deliver on that promise while supporting community funding.”

North of the border, Sweden-based Gaming Corps has received licensure from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. The approval allows the company to launch titles like Hoop Champion and Shootout Champion in one of Canada’s fastest-growing regulated markets. CEO Juha Kauppinen emphasized the strategic value of the Ontario market, citing its potential for both engagement and long-term growth.

In corporate news, Penn Entertainment announced changes to its board following engagement with HG Vora Capital Management. Industry veterans Johnny Hartnett and Carlos Ruisanchez have been nominated for board seats, while Ron Naples has stepped down, and two other directors have opted not to seek re-election. The reshuffle positions Penn for what it describes as “a critical phase for the business,” likely linked to its evolving sports betting and entertainment strategy.

Simultaneously, LeoVegas unveiled a second UK office in Leeds, expanding its physical footprint to support its growing portfolio, including BetMGM and its namesake brand. Gethin Evans, managing director for the UK and Ireland, said the new office aims to attract top talent and reinforce brand strength in a competitive market.

 

Pennsylvania joins the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement, expanding online poker player pools and boosting revenue potential. The move strengthens U.S. iGaming markets and economic growth.

A Sector in Motion

Together, these developments signal continued momentum in the regulated gaming sector across North America and Europe. Pennsylvania’s move into MSIGA not only reshapes the U.S. online poker landscape but also underscores a broader shift toward greater state cooperation and digital gaming expansion. As more jurisdictions move to embrace regulated frameworks, operators and regulators alike are finding new ways to scale responsibly and sustainably.