Delaware will become the first state in the nation to launch “a full suite” of internet gambling.
This is an effort by state officials and casino owners to keep revenues from gaming competitive with surrounding states that have expanded their gambling facilities.
The Wilmington News Journal reports that around 25 to 75 players have registered online to test out the system over the next week at the state’s three casinos.
Games that will be available include poker, blackjack, roulette and slots.
This year the Markell administration and casino executives hope to bring in $5 million through the end of the fiscal year.
Revenues from gambling have dropped to an expected $176 million this fiscal year from $240 million in 2010.
Ed Sutor, chief executive at Dover Downs Hotel and Casino, told the News Journal that while the financial benefits may not be big it’s another source of income for an industry that “has been knocked on its heels by competition.”
