Washington, D.C. Could Soon Have Poker and Blackjack Table Games

Washington, D.C. could shortly welcome live dealer table games, such as blackjack and poker, as proposed by the mayor of the nation’s capital.

Proposed Legislation for Table Games

In her proposed 2026 fiscal year budget, which outlines $11.9 billion in local spending, Mayor Muriel Bowser seeks to expand the city’s gambling offerings to include popular table games like blackjack and poker. Presently, D.C. only hosts a city-run lottery along with various retail and mobile sports betting options.

The motivation behind this proposed expansion arises from economic shifts resulting in a significant reduction of roughly 40,000 federal jobs during the previous administration. Mayor Bowser emphasizes the need for fresh tax revenue streams, reinforced by measures like the Poker and Blackjack Gaming Authorization Act.

Application Process for Table Games

If the D.C. Council approves the legislation, the Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG) will manage applications for table game privileges. Each business would need to pay an application fee of $5,000, with annual renewals priced at $1,500. Additionally, approved poker and blackjack businesses could incur a fee of $2,000 per year for each extra location.

• Alcohol-serving establishments will also need a “card gaming endorsement” from the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration, costing $500 annually.
• The statute proposes that the city retain 25% of the revenue from these table games.
• Operators must provide monthly returns to Glenn Lee, the city’s chief financial officer.

Popularity of Table Games

Blackjack remains one of the most popular table games for American gamblers. While baccarat reigns in international circles, stateside, numerous players also flock to poker, roulette, and craps.

Potential City Sportsbook Expansion

Mayor Bowser’s budget proposal does not include a clear revenue projection for the new gambling games. Yet, with the NFL’s Washington Commanders returning to the city in the coming years, the introduction of blackjack and poker could enhance the attraction of the new stadium at the RFK campus.

Current sportsbooks, such as Nationals Park featuring an on-site BetMGM Sportsbook and Capital One Arena hosting a Caesars Sportsbook, could easily incorporate these new table games into their offerings.

Expanded Gambling, Yet No Full Casinos

City officials are exploring new tax revenues through expanded gambling opportunities without pursuing full-scale casinos. This scenario benefits MGM Resorts, which operates MGM National Harbor with over 2,200 slot machines and 200 table games located just across the Potomac River in Maryland.

Nina Albert, Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, commented, Washington D.C. has seen robust revenue growth over the past two decades, as our population and business base expands. We must keep exploring growth opportunities, including in sports and entertainment.

When presenting the city council with the budget, Chief Financial Officer Lee stated that the operational margin on the proposed $11.9 billion budget was a mere $500,000, indicating a need for careful management amid fluctuating economic conditions.

Conclusion

With the potential introduction of poker and blackjack tables in Washington D.C., the city’s gambling landscape may soon evolve, creating new attractions for both local residents and visitors alike. If the proposal passes, it could not only boost tax revenues but also enhance the city’s entertainment offerings.