Mayor Advocates for Poker and Blackjack to Alleviate Financial Burden

By Blog


Published on: October 8, 2025, 08:06h.

Updated on: October 8, 2025, 08:06h.

  • Bowser places her bets on gaming to tackle D.C.’s dwindling revenues
  • Council debates legalization of poker, blackjack, and bingo
  • New gaming initiative aimed at boosting tourism and filling budget gaps

Washington, D.C. is grappling with escalating financial stress due to federal job reductions and downsizing from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The city is also experiencing decreased tax revenues from vacant offices and ongoing tourism losses to neighboring Maryland and Virginia. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s latest strategy? Legalizing poker, blackjack, and bingo to rekindle revenue and attract visitors.

Washington D.C. economic outlook, Muriel Bowser gambling legislation, poker legalization, D.C. fiscal deficit, Kenyan McDuffie
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser addressing a press conference in Washington D.C. in August. Her initiative to legalize poker, blackjack, and bingo is part of a comprehensive plan to enhance district revenues. (Image: Getty)

Bowser has officially proposed the Poker and Blackjack Gaming Authorization Act, which aims to license and oversee live commercial poker and blackjack in various establishments for individuals aged 18 and older, as reported by WJLA (ABC 7 News Washington). The act would also “legalize lotteries, daily numbers games, and bingo and raffles for charitable causes” within the district.

If enacted, operators would incur a $5,000 application fee for a two-year license and a further $2,000 per venue. The taxation rates would be set at 25% for poker and blackjack revenues and 7.5% for bingo. Bowser’s 2026 budget proposal includes a plan to expand the Office of Lottery and Gaming to regulate this new market.

The administration is cautious about estimating potential revenue, highlighting that it will depend on operator participation levels.

‘Taking Action Amid Adversity’

The bill might face significant hurdles. Similar efforts were removed from Bowser’s previous budget after encountering resistance.

However, Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie expressed to WJLA that this move demonstrates the D.C. Council’s proactive stance amid economic challenges.

I believe this sends a strong message that the mayor, the deputy mayor, and the city are indicating that, despite the circumstances, Washington D.C. is not passive,” McDuffie stated. “We are committed to investing in our future and showcasing that inclusive growth, innovation, and economic opportunity are integral to the narrative of the District of Columbia,” he added, emphasizing that D.C. will not remain stagnant in the face of external pressures.

Issues with Sports Betting

D.C.’s history with gambling initiatives has had its ups and downs. Sports betting was legalized in 2019, but it was initially poorly executed and overly complex. The Council granted a $215 million no-bid contract to Greek operator Intralot, which was later scrutinized for potential fraud.

Intralot operated under a high-hold model, promising high returns to the D.C. Council, but ultimately fell flat due to unfavorable odds for players. The term “hold” indicates the percentage of bets the operator retains after paying winning wagers.

In 2024, McDuffie took the lead in legislation that dismantled the monopoly, paving the way for competition and significantly boosting D.C.’s sports betting revenues.



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