Louisiana is taking a very big step toward legalizing online casinos.
The Louisiana Senate recently passed a resolution to convene a study committee to examine the benefits, concerns, and best practices related to iGaming.
The committee will report its findings to the Senate by March 1, following joint meetings between Senate committees Judiciary B and Revenue and Fiscal Affairs. Although the resolution stipulates that the committee should begin meeting before October 1, logistical considerations may delay the actual start until October.
Online Casinos, Apps, and Websites Not Legal in Louisiana
Online casinos are currently illegal in Louisiana. While the state boasts several large retail casino resorts, lawmakers have yet to approve casino apps and websites.
However, residents can still enjoy online slots and table games through platforms like WOW Vegas, High 5 Casino, and Pulsz. These sites allow Louisianans to play for fun and legally redeem premium coins for cash prizes.
Senator Thinks Online Casinos Could Fix Revenue Loophoole
According to PlayUSA, Senator Kirk Talbot initiated the resolution to establish the Louisiana online casino study committee by introducing SR149 during the final week of the legislative session.
As of July 1, 2025, an additional 45-cent sales tax will expire after eight years, leaving Louisiana with a $500 million budget shortfall to address in the next legislative session. Revenue from online casinos is unlikely to bridge this gap immediately.
Legalizing online casinos in Louisiana will require voter approval. Similar to sports betting, each parish in Louisiana will have the option to permit or reject iGaming.
If the study committee’s findings are favorable and lawmakers pass the necessary legislation next year, the issue could be presented to voters by late 2025. This means that online casinos in Louisiana might not start generating revenue until the end of the fiscal year.
Bovada May Be Bounced From Louisiana
In another developing story in The Pelican State, the Louisiana Gaming Control Board (LGCB) issued a cease-and-desist notice to Bovada (visit our Bovada Review), an offshore sports betting and iGaming operator. The notice demands that Bovada immediately stop its services in the state. The LGCB alleges that Bovada allows Louisiana residents to place wagers through its online casino, violating state gaming laws. The company’s operation is considered illegal due to a lack of proper licensing.
The chairman of the LGCB, Christopher B. Hebert, wrote in his notice: “Bovada is allowing Louisiana residents and/or persons located in the state of Louisiana to place wagers via mobile application and internet websites with online casino services which include sportsbook, iGaming, table games slots, live dealer, poker, horse racing, and hundreds of other gambling options in violation of Louisiana gaming laws and regulations.”
As of this writing, Bovada restricts users in 11 states, including Ohio, New York, Nevada, Washington, D.C., and New Jersey.
So, two big developments that could alter the way people bet in the bayou. We’ll keep you posted on both.
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