Massachusetts public divided on iGaming debate, surveys show
Massachusetts is now debating whether to permit online casino legislation. Supporters of the proposal argue that regulation would provide oversight and revenue, although opinions on the matter are mixed across the state. Critics warn of risks such as addiction, job losses, and broader societal repercussions. The debate intensified after two statewide polls were released with conflicting findings, underscoring just how divided public sentiment is. Lawmakers are left weighing these opposing views as they consider the future of iGaming in the Commonwealth.
Key findings of Beacon Research
According to a Beacon Research survey, 59 percent of Massachusetts voters are in favour of legalising and regulating online casino games, while 24 percent are against it. Many people view regulation as a way of reducing risks rather than increasing gambling, as shown by the nearly three-quarters who expressed concerns about unregulated platforms, particularly their impact on consumers and minors. Additionally, support spanned party lines, with majorities of Republicans, Democrats, and independents in favour.
The same survey highlighted specific concerns about unregulated online casinos. Around 85 per cent of respondents feared exposure of financial data, 83 percent raised concerns about inadequate age verification, and 84 percent worried that offshore operators might not pay winnings. This survey was conducted on behalf of the Sports Betting Alliance (SBA), which represents operators such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics.
Key findings from Emerson College Polling
An Emerson College poll presented a very different picture from the Beacon survey, with 56 percent of Massachusetts residents opposing the legalisation of online casino gaming. 77 percent of voters aged 60 and over opposed it. Concerns about addiction and constant access were highlighted by the study; a significant majority expressed concern about children and teenagers using online platforms, and many believed that having round-the-clock access to smartphones would worsen problem gambling in the state.
The poll was sponsored by Stop iGaming in Massachusetts (SIGMA), an advocacy group that opposes legalisation. Unlike industry groups that frame regulation as a way to manage risks, SIGMA stresses the social costs of iGaming, including addiction, youth exposure, and long-term public health impacts, portraying it as a broader threat to communities.
Three iGaming bills still alive
Massachusetts is still considering three measures to legalise online casino gaming. Both House Bill H332, introduced by Representative Daniel Cahill, and Senate Bill S235, supported by Senator Paul Feeney, propose regulation under a new Chapter 23O of state law. The structure and taxation of a third bill, House Bill H4431, introduced by Representative David Muradian Jr., differ.
While SB235 and HB332 propose up to 10 skins with a 20 percent tax rate, HB4431 would allow up to nine online casinos with a 15 percent tax rate. These differences affect both operator interest and revenue projections.
All three bills have had their reporting deadlines extended into March, meaning committees are taking additional time before making recommendations. The debate over iGaming in Massachusetts remains unresolved.
Resistance from labour unions and casino operators
The legalisation of online casino legislation in Massachusetts has faced opposition from labour unions and casino operators. According to labour groups, online platforms could lead to fewer people visiting casinos in person, resulting in job losses.
Encore Boston Harbor’s operator, Wynn Resorts, has publicly opposed entering the iGaming industry. Penn Entertainment and MGM Resorts International, two of the state’s casino operators, have not made any public statements meanwhile. The fact that both companies currently operate online casino brands in other jurisdictions may influence their stance should legalisation proceed.
Position of State Treasurer
State Treasurer Deb Goldberg has spoken out against legalising online casinos in Massachusetts. Citing the state’s high lottery participation rate, she notes that additional gaming options could reduce lottery revenues. Goldberg also raises concerns about addiction and wider public health impacts. Her support for legalising online lottery sales, which are scheduled to begin in July 2026, has further complicated the debate over how different forms of gambling should be regulated.
What happens next
Lawmakers in Massachusetts have extended committee deadlines into March for bills on online casino gaming, giving themselves additional time to review the issue. Before making recommendations, they will consider factors such as union concerns, public opinion, lobbying efforts, and revenue projections.
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