Louisiana's iGaming hearing reveals split opinions among casino operators, with Cordish Companies standing alone in opposition as they prepare to open their Bossier City casino.

Major gaming operators, including Boyd Gaming, Caesars Entertainment, and Light & Wonder, expressed support for online casino gaming during the joint Senate committee hearing, arguing it complements physical casinos and attracts new demographics.

Cordish Companies, investing $270M in their upcoming Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana, opposed iGaming despite operating online casinos in Pennsylvania. Their representatives, Mark Stewart and John Chaszar, cited concerns about:

• Reduced foot traffic to physical casinos
• Potential revenue loss
• Decreased reinvestment
• Job security risks
• Enhanced problem gambling concerns

Counter-arguments from industry stakeholders included:

• The Sports Betting Alliance (representing DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Fanatics) highlighted iGaming's success exceeding market projections
• iDEA members presented evidence of iGaming complementing physical casino operations
• Successful coexistence of online and retail gaming in Detroit and tribal resorts

The hearing took place during the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States' 2024 Winter Meeting at Caesars New Orleans, as Louisiana considers joining seven other states in legalizing online casino gambling.

Related Articles

Previous Articles