The legislation was proposed by D.C. Council member Jack Evans, who said in a statement that if passed into a law, the bill would bring more revenue to the State. According to him, the District should act quickly if it wants to tap into this new and lucrative market. In order for the region to secure boost to city coffers, however, D.C. lawmakers should take action as soon as possible.
Neighboring Maryland already has casino gambling, while Virginia is considering sports betting. In his statement, Evans points out that the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races in West Virginia is currently targeting D.C. gamblers. In fact, this is the closest gambling facility available to D.C. residents as it is located only 75-minute drive from Washington Downtown. According to the Council member, the proposed bill would bring in revenue for the District rather than other jurisdictions making money off of D.C. gamblers.
The bill was introduced by Evans along with Council members Cheh, Gray, Bonds, and Todd. It is now being referred to the Committee on Finance and Revenue and needs to go through several procedures before being passed as law. Evans believes that the majority of his colleagues in the Council are in support of the amendment of the current gambling legislation. He says the bill has been drafted with the offices of Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) and D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D).
Source: GMB / Casino News Daily
