Day: 16 January 2026

Key Moments: Parliament debated almost doubling the Remote Gaming Duty on online casino-style products, from 21% to 40%, effective April 1, 2026. Concerns arose that higher duties could push consumers toward unlicensed offshore gambling platforms. The government committed an additional £26 million over three years to strengthen enforcement against illegal operators. Legislative Proposals Target Online Gambling Sector During a Commons debate on the Finance (No. 2) Bill, UK ministers introduced plans for major changes to gambling taxation. Specifically, the Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) on online casino products—like slots and roulette—would…

Key Moments: Representative Matt Lehman introduced House Bill 39 to equalize access to pari-mutuel pools for all bettors at Kentucky racetracks. Computer-assisted wagering (CAW) operators place billions of dollars in bets each year, heavily influencing odds and payouts for casual bettors. In November 2025, the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation approved electronic table-game themes within the state’s Historical Horse Racing system. House Bill 39 Introduced in Response to Technological Betting Edge House Bill 39, sponsored by Representative Matt Lehman, addresses an imbalance between ordinary horse racing fans and large…

Key Moments: Oklahoma has introduced SB 1589, which would criminalize sweepstakes-style online casino games and hold service providers liable. Utah has expanded both regulatory and consumer protection measures to address sweepstakes casinos without imposing a full ban. Six states have taken action to ban sweepstakes casinos in 2025, while additional states prepare new regulations for 2026. Legislative Actions Target Sweepstakes Casino Operations Sweepstakes casinos saw increased popularity during the pandemic, operating in a legal gray area. Now, Oklahoma and Utah have introduced new laws intended to bring more clarity and…

Key Moments: The NCAA formally requested that the CFTC suspend all college sports prediction markets Additionally, the association warned of risks to student-athletes, consumers, and competitive integrity Meanwhile, a dispute over Kalshi’s proposed transfer portal contracts intensified regulatory pressure Concerns Prompt Appeal for Federal Action The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has formally asked the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to halt college sports prediction markets. Specifically, the request urges an immediate suspension. The appeal was delivered in a letter to CFTC Chairman Michael S. Selig on January 14, 2026.…