COUNCILMEMBER FELDER INTRODUCES INTERNET GAMING AND CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT OF 2026
Smart, responsible legislation would legalize iGaming, protect consumers, and generate new revenue for the District
Washington, DC – Last week, Councilmember Felder introduced the Internet Gaming and Consumer Protection Act of 2026, legislation to legalize online casino-style gaming (“iGaming”) in the District of Columbia.
The bill would create a comprehensive regulatory framework that protects consumers, strengthens oversight, and captures revenue from an activity that is already occurring—largely through illegal, unregulated platforms.
“As the District’s economy continues to shift—and as we enter a more constrained budget season—we’re going to be faced with some very tough decisions. As a city, we must identify innovative ways to generate new revenue without placing additional burdens on residents,” said Councilmember Felder. “iGaming is happening right now in the District with no safeguards and no benefits to our residents and this legislation brings that activity into a legal, transparent system that protects people and generates revenue we can reinvest back into our communities without raising taxes.”
Turning an Existing Market into a Public Benefit
States across the country have successfully legalized iGaming, demonstrating that most users of legal platforms previously participated in unregulated markets. If passed, the legislation is projected to generate over $10 million in upfront licensing fees, $50 million dollars annually with upward projections of over $75 million within 5 years. These funds will support essential District services and long-term investments.
Strong Consumer Protections
The bill prioritizes safety and accountability through strict 21+ age requirements and identity verifications, protections against fraud, underage access and account misuse, and establishes strong enforcement tools to shut down illegal operators. It also requires operators to safeguard customer funds and personal data and to implement responsible gaming tools such as deposit and spending limits, time limits, third-party reporting, cooling off periods, and self-exclusion options.
Investing in Communities
In addition to generating revenue, the legislation ensures dedicated funding to support behavioral health and gambling addiction prevention and treatment. It also establishes a 2% iGaming Community Reinvestment fund to mitigate the potential social impacts of gambling on District residents, including:
- Financial literacy and debt management services
- Domestic violence and family stability programs
- Gambling research
- Workforce development in technology and gaming sectors
The bill also requires operators to partner with local businesses, directing at least 35% of operational spending to DC-based Certified Business Enterprises (CBEs), which is expected to create new economic opportunities in tech, operations, marketing, compliance for District residents and entrepreneurs.
A Responsible Path Forward
Without action, illegal markets will continue to operate unchecked, DC will continue to lose millions in potential revenue, residents will remain unprotected, and the District will be left at a disadvantage as neighboring jurisdictions expand their markets.
The Internet Gaming and Consumer Protection Act of 2026 offers a balanced approach—protecting consumers, supporting local businesses, and creating a new, sustainable revenue stream for the District.
“This is about governing responsibly. We have an opportunity to get ahead of this, protect our residents, and make sure the benefits of this industry are felt right here in DC,” Councilmember Felder added. “With that in mind, I’m excited to advance our iGaming bill, which is projected to generate significant revenue over the next several years.”
Read the full legislation here.
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