On January 27, 2025, the Connecticut General Law Committee convened a forum focused on gaming, featuring key representatives from Mohegan Sun and FanDuel. The discussions highlighted the significant economic contributions of the gaming industry to the state, as well as the evolving landscape of digital gaming.

Mohegan Sun's representatives emphasized their commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, supporting over 5,000 employees in Connecticut. They noted that the casino contributes significantly to the local economy, purchasing over $250 million in goods and services annually from more than 1,500 Connecticut businesses. The introduction of new dining venues at Mohegan Sun is expected to create hundreds of additional jobs and enhance the property’s appeal as a tourism destination, attracting approximately 6.5 million guests each year.

Rich Roberts, president of Mohegan Digital, discussed the importance of innovation and security in digital gaming operations. He highlighted the collaboration with FanDuel to promote responsible gaming and ensure a safe online environment. The partnership aims to leverage advanced technology for monitoring user behavior, which is crucial for preventing underage gambling and addressing problem gambling issues.

FanDuel's representative, Michael Venturi, shared insights on the company's growth and its role in Connecticut's gaming market. He noted that FanDuel has contributed approximately $82 million in taxes to the state from casino revenue and $24 million from online sports betting. Venturi also mentioned the company's commitment to responsible gaming practices, including tools for player protection and verification processes to ensure compliance with regulations.

The forum also addressed the future of online gaming in Connecticut, particularly the potential for a multistate compact for online poker. Committee members expressed the need to review the current 10-year limitation on iGaming to ensure that Connecticut remains competitive in the evolving gaming landscape.

Overall, the meeting underscored the gaming industry's vital role in Connecticut's economy and the ongoing efforts to adapt to changing consumer preferences and regulatory environments. As digital gaming continues to grow, stakeholders are keen to foster innovation while ensuring responsible practices that protect consumers. The discussions set the stage for future legislative considerations that could shape the state's gaming framework.