Ontario May End Online Betting Monopoly

The Canadian province of Ontario may be ending the current monopoly on internet gambling within their territory if the Conservative party gets its way.

The provincial government announced this week that they're looking to establish an open market for online casino gambling, while also looking to legalize and offer single event sportsbetting. The proposals were announced in the 2019 provincial budget, and would see ways to increase revenues coming into the territory through both licensing fees and taxes.

The province currently has only one betting option, Play OGA, which is run by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation. The site does offer slots and table games, but it's clear that Ontario residents are craving new options.

Professional sports executives are also in favor of legalizing sportsbetting, with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman saying: "With two NHL franchises in Ontario and two right on the border with the US, Ontario is a very important market for the NHL. Accordingly, the NHL does not object to the Province of Ontario's initiative to offer single event wagering when it is permitted."

We'll be following the story and letting readers know about the progress of the proposals.