Rhode Island's Gambling Debate Pits Control vs. Competition

26 October 2026

Rhode Island is set to see a potential shift in how it manages online gambling, with a major policy battle brewing between lawmakers aiming to expand betting access and a dominant casino operator seeking to solidify its role in the market.

Online sports betting has been available in Rhode Island since 2019, and the state legalized iGaming in 2023 through legislation, extending Bally's Corporation's land-based casino monopoly into online gambling.

Last November, Bally's won a competitive bid for a five-year contract to operate the state's second online sportsbook. But that deal is now in jeopardy as state lawmakers consider legislation to greatly expand the market, potentially opening the door for additional vendors.

Tied to the existing framework

Rhode Island's current regulatory setup gives a single vendor — usually a partner like Bally's in the casino business — an exclusivity deal to provide the online or mobile games. Bally's iGaming platform already allows state residents 21 and up to play hits like roulette, blackjack, and video poker from anywhere with internet access.

In contrast, traditional sports betting demands happen at the sportsbook's physical location. However, that is evolving, and Rhode Island has embraced online versions.

Bally's ambition threatens to be derailed

In May 2024, Rhode Island selected Bally's for a five-year deal on a second online sportsbook, pending some terms.

More on this is available via https://bet-ri.com/.

But that deal is now at stake as lawmakers debate S3118, a Senate bill introduced in early 2024. It would require the Rhode Island Lottery Commission to issue between three and five online sports betting contracts, selected in a competitive process.

The bill is framed as a way to bring more competition to Rhode Island's casino market. Proponents argue that offering more sportsbook vendors could be a way to keep residents from crossing borders to wager in other states. But Bally's Corporation, which already has a deal for the state's only live online casino, was tentatively awarded a license for the state's second online sportsbook.

The behind-the-scenes rivalry

Bally’s would have faced competition from Rush Street Interactive in the bidding process for the second online sportsbook slot. But Sen. Cynthia Corsair, who introduced the legislation, said that makes the case for her proposal even stronger.

Mark Furcolo, the executive director of the Rhode Island Lottery, said the proposed changes are legally dubious.