D.C. Mayor Bowser makes fresh bid to legalize poker, blackjack and bingo
Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser has launched a renewed effort to legalize poker, blackjack and commercial bingo as part of a wider plan to strengthen the city’s finances and attract visitors amid economic uncertainty.
Bowser’s proposal, the Poker and Blackjack Gaming Authorization Act of 2025 (Council Bill B26-0379), would permit regulated poker and blackjack tournaments in licensed venues such as bars, hotels and event spaces for adults aged 18 and older, while expanding commercial bingo operations.
Under the plan, operators would pay a $5,000 application fee for a two-year license, plus $2,000 per location, and poker and blackjack revenues would be taxed at 25%, compared with 7.5% for bingo. The proposal also sets aside $497,000 in the fiscal 2026 budget to fund four new regulatory positions within the Office of Lottery and Gaming to oversee the expanded gambling activity.
Bowser characterized the initiative as part of a broader “pro-growth” and “open for business” strategy designed to offset federal job cuts, capture gambling dollars that flow to neighboring Maryland and Virginia, and boost the hospitality and entertainment sectors.
Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie, who chairs the Committee on Business and Economic Development, has emerged as a key supporter and will lead hearings on the measure. McDuffie previously championed the Sports Wagering Amendment Act of 2024, which opened D.C.’s online betting market to more competition.
“I think it’s another clear message that the mayor, the deputy mayor, and this city are sending, despite everything around us, that Washington D.C. is not standing still,” McDuffie said. “Rather, we are investing in our future and proving that inclusive growth, innovation, and economic opportunity are central to our story here in the District of Columbia.”
Bowser’s previous attempts to legalize poker and blackjack were stripped from earlier budgets after pushback from the council. Critics of gambling expansion continue to warn of potential social costs, including addiction risks and the need for stronger consumer safeguards and regulatory oversight.
Legal uncertainties also linger. An 18th-century British law, the Statute of Anne, still on D.C.’s books, allows recovery of gambling losses over $25 and has already prompted lawsuits against sports betting operators. Lawmakers may need to update or clarify the statute to prevent similar challenges if new gaming forms are approved.
The bill has been referred to McDuffie’s committee for hearings expected to include public testimony, revenue modeling, and debate over social protections. If passed, the city would need to establish new licensing, enforcement, and public education frameworks before any games could begin.
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