The Rhode Island Senate Committee recently delayed the progression of a bill that would allow online casino gaming in the state. The bill, which was introduced by Senate President Dominick Ruggerio, would have allowed the state’s two casinos, Twin River and Tiverton, to offer online casino games to their customers.

The delay in the bill’s progression was due to concerns raised by some members of the Senate Committee about the potential negative impact that online casino gaming could have on problem gambling in the state. The committee decided to hold off on further discussion of the bill until they had more information on the potential risks and benefits of online casino gaming.

While some lawmakers are concerned about the potential negative effects of online casino gaming, others argue that it could provide a much-needed boost to Rhode Island’s economy. The state’s two casinos have been struggling financially in recent years, and online gaming could help them generate additional revenue.

In addition to providing a financial boost to the state’s casinos, online casino gaming could also create new job opportunities in the tech industry. Many online gaming companies are based in other states or countries, but if Rhode Island were to legalize online gaming, it could attract these companies to set up operations in the state.

Despite the delay in the bill’s progression, many supporters of online casino gaming remain optimistic that it will eventually be passed. They argue that online gaming is already legal in several other states, including New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and that Rhode Island should not be left behind.

In the meantime, Rhode Island residents who want to gamble online will have to continue using offshore gambling sites, which are not regulated by the state and may not be safe or secure.

Overall, the debate over online casino gaming in Rhode Island is far from over. While some lawmakers are concerned about the potential risks, others see it as an opportunity to boost the state’s economy and create new jobs. Only time will tell whether or not the bill will eventually be passed, but for now, the future of online gaming in Rhode Island remains uncertain.