News Summary
Rhode Island is boosting its crackdown on illegal online gambling operators in a bid to strengthen its regulatory framework. Attorney General Peter Neronha has launched an investigation and the Rhode Island Lottery has issued cease-and-desist letters to several offshore sportsbooks. The state is also exploring the expansion of its sports betting market, with proposals from multiple major operators and ongoing legislative discussions. As other states follow suit in reinforcing gambling regulations, Rhode Island aims to ensure a safe and competitive betting environment.
Rhode Island is intensifying its enforcement against illegal online gambling operators as part of a broader initiative to enhance the state’s regulatory framework. The Attorney General Peter Neronha has initiated an investigation into unlicensed online gambling platforms based on a request from the Department of Revenue.
As part of this crackdown, the Rhode Island Lottery has issued six cease-and-desist letters to offshore sportsbooks, naming platforms such as BetUS, BetOnline, Bovada, MyBookie, WildCasino, and YouWager as illegal operators targeting residents. This decisive action aligns with Rhode Island’s ongoing consideration to expand its sports betting market.
Currently, the sole operating license for sports betting in Rhode Island is held by International Game Technology (IGT), which manages the Sportsbook RI app under an exclusive contract with the Rhode Island Lottery. As regulators explore potential changes to this existing setup, a Request for Information (RFI) was launched by the Rhode Island Lottery to evaluate the interest of additional companies in entering the market.
In response to the RFI, eight major operators have submitted proposals, with the deadline having passed on August 22. The list includes Bally’s, BetMGM, DraftKings, Fanatics, FanDuel, IGT, Kambi, and OpenBet. Notably, Bally’s has announced plans to commence online casino gaming in Rhode Island by 2024, leveraging its established presence within the state.
A Senate-approved bill that sought to eliminate IGT’s monopoly over sports betting secured a substantial 30–3 vote earlier this year but has since stalled in the House. The proposed competition aims to promote a healthier market dynamic and generate increased state revenue, following a Spectrum Gaming Group study recommending at least three licensed operators to create more competitive conditions.
Senator Frank Ciccone, the primary supporter of the bill, indicated that having only one operator in the market does not serve the interests of consumers or enhance revenue generation prospects. This commentary underscores the prevailing sentiment among lawmakers advocating for more competitive betting opportunities in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island’s enforcement actions reflect a wider national movement aimed at curtailing illegal gambling activities. Various states across the U.S. are concurrently taking steps to reinforce their gambling regulations, issuing cease-and-desist orders to unregulated sportsbooks and sweepstakes operators. For instance, Michigan has dispatched over 100 cease-and-desist letters to illegal gambling entities as part of its commitment to consumer protection and regulatory integrity.
Other states, including California and Louisiana, are also taking measures against dual-currency sweepstakes operators to safeguard consumers. As these developments unfold, Rhode Island aims to ensure that all betting activities remain safe, transparent, and compliant with state regulations while considering potential expansions of its regulated betting market.
This combined effort to crack down on illegal gambling while exploring the expansion of regulated sports betting positions Rhode Island at the forefront of a crucial national dialogue, balancing consumer protection with the push for market competitiveness.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- iGaming Today: Rhode Island Cracks Down on Offshore Sportsbooks
- Yogonet: Rhode Island Regulators Consider Opening Online Sports Betting Market
- Gaming America: Rhode Island Lottery Issues Six Cease-and-Desist Letters
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gambling
- Google Search: Rhode Island Sports Betting
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
