We’re just one step away from West Virginia Internet gambling becoming regulated. They could become the fifth state to legalize web betting, with a bill currently awaiting Governor Jim Justice’s signature.

House Bill 2934, which was introduced by Delegate Jason Barrett on February 12, has been passed by both chambers of the West Virginia legislature. Having passed the House in February, it was then passed by the Senate on March 8, the second-last day of the 2019 regular session by a vote of 26 in favor, and seven against.

As a result of minor tweaks made in the upper chamber, it then returned to the House for final approval, which was secured on March 9, with 78 Delegates voting in favor, 18 against and four abstentions.

It now passes to the Governor for final ratification, though Justice can allow the bill to pass into law without his signature, as he did with the state’s sports betting regulations. Should it become law, West Virginia would join Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey and Pennsylvania in regulating online gaming.

The bill, named the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act, allows for five-year licenses to be awarded to the state’s land-based casinos, at a cost of $250,000 (£192,600/€222,300), with igaming taxed at 15% of gross gaming revenue. Operators will be able to offer online poker, slots and table games.

You can read more on West Virginia Internet gambling at iGaming Business.