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The push for online casino legalization is gaining traction across the U.S.—but not every state is on the same page. In 2025, Massachusetts is making moves, Virginia hit pause, Illinois is eyeing 2026, and Ohio… Well, Ohio’s stuck in a legal jam.
Let’s walk through where things stand and what needs to happen for these states to join the growing club of real money online casino-friendly jurisdictions.
Massachusetts: Most Likely to Launch Next
Massachusetts has taken the most significant step forward this year. Lawmakers introduced a pair of bills in 2025 that would legalize online casinos across the state. These bills would allow the state’s three land-based casinos to partner with up to two online operators each. On top of that, the state could also issue four untethered licenses to independent online casino brands.
Supporters of the bill—including major industry players like DraftKings and FanDuel—argue that legalizing online slots and table games could generate over $250 million a year in new tax revenue. And they’ve made it clear: illegal gambling is already happening. Might as well regulate and tax it.
Of course, not everyone’s on board. Critics worry about the impact on existing casinos, potential job losses, and rising rates of problem gambling. Some groups have called for more consumer protections and limits on marketing. Others are sounding alarms over 24/7 access to mobile casinos.
Still, Massachusetts seems the most likely to get something done this year. If a bill passes by the end of the session, online casinos could launch sometime in 2026.
Virginia: All Talk in 2025, Eyes on 2026
Virginia made some noise this year with a pair of bills that would’ve legalized online casinos—but both were shelved for further study. Lawmakers acknowledged that the idea needs more research and public input before moving forward.
Suppose you’re wondering why the delay. The answer is simple: Virginia’s still figuring out its growing gambling landscape. The state only recently approved brick-and-mortar casinos and launched VA sports betting in 2023. There’s concern that adding online casinos to the mix too soon could overwhelm regulators and cannibalize existing revenues.
The plan now is to regroup and reassess. Lawmakers are setting up workgroups to study the issue and expect to reintroduce legislation in 2026. When they do, it could allow each casino to operate up to three online skins and offer games like poker, blackjack, roulette, and slots.
It’s not a question of if Virginia joins the iGaming club—it’s a matter of when.
Illinois: Big Expectations for Next Year
Illinois isn’t taking up an online casino bill this year, but the groundwork is being laid for 2026. Attorney General Kwame Raoul recently said he believes legalization is inevitable and that the state is simply waiting for the right moment.
Illinois already has a massive gambling footprint—retail casinos, a booming IL sports betting market, and thousands of video gaming terminals. Adding online slots and table games would just be the next step in its gambling evolution.
Lawmakers have already tried. Bills were introduced in previous sessions but failed to clear committees, mostly due to pushback from VGT operators and concerns about cannibalizing land-based casinos.
Now, with a growing budget deficit and demand for new revenue streams, momentum is building. If a fresh proposal hits the floor next January, there’s a good chance Illinois will finally join the online casino movement.
Ohio: All Jammed Up
And then there’s Ohio. Despite multiple bills being introduced to bring online casinos to the Buckeye State, the entire idea is tangled in constitutional red tape.
Here’s the issue: Ohio’s constitution specifically limits casino gambling to four physical locations, with clear rules on where slot machines can exist. Nothing in the Constitution mentions online casinos or allows for gambling to take place on your phone or laptop from home.
Lawmakers have tried to sidestep the problem by tying online licenses to existing casinos and racinos, but legal experts say that’s probably not enough. Changing casino law in Ohio might actually require a constitutional amendment—meaning a statewide vote.
It doesn’t help that Governor Mike DeWine is publicly against the idea, citing addiction risks and the possibility of “a casino in everyone’s pocket.”
Until that constitutional question is resolved—and political support strengthens—Ohio’s chances of passing online casino legislation remain slim.
What Needs to Happen Next?
Every state has its own path to legalization, but a few things have to fall into place:
1. Legislative Action
At the most basic level, states need to pass bills that authorize online casino operations. That means getting through committee hearings, public testimony, debates, and ultimately a floor vote.
2. Regulatory Framework
Once the law passes, regulators (like a state gaming commission) need to draft rules, issue licenses, and approve software. That can take several months—or more than a year.
3. Addressing Opposition
Most of the pushback comes from two camps: land-based casino operators and problem gambling advocates. Lawmakers will need to offer concessions or safeguards, like higher taxes on online operators, responsible gaming tools, and limits on marketing.
4. Legal Clarification (Ohio-Only Problem)
In Ohio’s case, none of this moves forward unless the state amends its constitution or the courts reinterpret existing provisions to allow internet-based play. That’s a tall order and could take years.
The Road Ahead for iGaming
So, will more states legalize online casinos in the next year?
Massachusetts is the best bet—everything’s in motion, and there’s genuine political will. Illinois could be next if 2026 plays out as predicted. Virginia will return to the conversation soon, but with a more cautious, studied approach.
Ohio? Not holding our breath.
Nationwide, the dominoes are slowly falling. And while legal sports betting exploded across the U.S. over the past few years, online casino gaming is taking a more measured route. It’s higher stakes, bigger margins, and brings more scrutiny.
But the potential tax windfalls are real—and that’s something no state can ignore for long.
Keep your chips close. This game’s just getting started.
