Abstract
Much of the discussion in gambling circles in the U.S. (and to some extent globally) remains on the U.S. Supreme Court decision that overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in May 2018. In essence, it opened up sports betting opportunities to those states which choose to offer it to their residents via enabling legislation. Several states have already legalized the activity and three (Delaware, New Jersey and Mississippi) have already begun allowing their gaming facilities to take wagers on sporting events.
It's a given that a number of other U.S. states will be gearing up to present legislation when many of their sessions start up again in January. Earlier this year, there were some 20 states in total which had legislation introduced as placeholders. Many said that, should the Supreme Court overturn PASPA, there was interest in their state in legalizing sports betting.
Several trends are clear so far. It's anticipated that most states will be allowing their existing commercial gaming licensees to offer sports betting. In a few states, there may also be a role for the state lotteries. So, while there's a bit of a gold rush by non‐U.S. companies seeking to enter the field in the U.S., it's pretty clear that they'll need to do so in partnership with existing licensees.
The other is that the states will need to be realistic on the fees and taxes levied. The tax rate of 36% for sports betting in Pennsylvania has been pointed to as one of the more extreme. While there is some pushback from the operators, the real proof will be to watch and see how many operators actually apply for those licenses there.
We're excited to bring our readers quality content in this issue. I was intrigued when we received a submission called “Betting on Cuba.” Having spent a week in Havana in early 2017, it was interesting to see such spots as the Hotel Nacional, which was home to a legendary casino back in the day. So, this article was of interest to me. Steven Brody describes both the rich history of gaming there as well as a theory on how it could proceed again as Cuba seeks additional tourism opportunities. Clearly, there are challenges in seeing such activities move forward in Cuba; but it is an intriguing concept. If there are changes in the Cuban government that would encourage such a gamble on private investment and ownership (a big if), then Brody's path forward would be one to consider.
We also take a look at the lotteries in the UK with an article from David Miers who discusses regulatory and social responsibility issues there. And we also have a contribution from Editorial Board member Robert Jarvis who gives a detailed analysis of the constitutional amendments being put forward in Florida as they relate to gaming. Florida remains an interesting case study in attempts at gambling expansion where such odd bedfellows as Disney and the Seminole Tribe are happy with the status quo. Yet others in the state shoot for expansion plans. Keep your eyes on the ballot results this fall armed with the useful information in this article.
Dr. Kristina Mulligan offers up a Commentary titled “Gamification and Responsible Gaming.” She brings up some good points about the guidance (or lack thereof) that is sometimes offered by regulators. There are clearly challenges for suppliers and operators in this space and many feel that they're left to their own devices to make sure they stay compliant.
And lastly, Justin Franssen and Kester Mekenkamp take the time to educate our readers on some recent decisions in The Netherlands. Their Commentary helps dissect some of the fits and starts in moving forward that we've seen in that country for the past 20 years. Another jurisdiction to keep an eye on, but it seems that it's often one step forward and two steps back.
Dawn Wagner, our managing editor, and I would like to encourage you to submit content to the journal. We've expanded the types of articles that we accept and will be happy to share information with you on these options. Please contact Dawn at