US iGaming Legislative Hurdles, DraftKings’ Gamalyze Launch Headline iDEA Growth Clips

Lawmakers and industry analysts report continued legislative resistance to iGaming expansion in major US states, despite interest in new tax revenue streams. Meanwhile, vendors such as Mindway AI and DraftKings are debuting responsible gaming tools aimed at NFL fans, and Stifel has initiated coverage of Rush Street Interactive, noting its online casino focus.

State Lawmakers Confront iGaming Legal Barriers

The iDevelopment & Economic Association convened a webinar on September 18, 2026, featuring Senator Jeremy McPike (Virginia), Representative David Muradian (Massachusetts), and Representative Brian Stewart (Ohio). The panel addressed the policy environment for iGaming, including recent legislative attempts in their respective states and the ongoing roadblocks.

Each lawmaker said there is clear interest due to projected tax revenue, but actual progress has stalled. Revenue arguments are frequently met with pushback from local stakeholders concerned about market cannibalisation, player protection, and social impacts. Committee-level opposition remains the principal barrier. Bills have failed repeatedly to reach a floor vote or have stalled post-committee, underscoring the tension between economic opportunity and regulatory caution in US casino expansion.

Examining Federal Barriers: Wire Act and Prediction Markets

James Trusty, reporting in Ifrah on iGaming, examined the status of the Wire Act in the wake of increasing activity from CFTC-overseen prediction markets like Kalshi. Trusty argued that while the Wire Act has historically been central to federal gambling prosecutions, its relevance has diminished as oversight responsibilities fragment between agencies like the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the Department of Justice. He questioned whether the Wire Act remains an effective tool for enforcement in the context of evolving online products.

Rush Street Interactive: Stifel Calls Out Online Casino Focus

Stifel analysts initiated their coverage of Rush Street Interactive, Inc., which operates the BetRivers brand. The brokerage cited the firm’s concentrated approach to the US online casino sector as providing the basis for a premium valuation relative to peers more heavily exposed to sports betting alone. Stifel’s report said, > "Rush Street Interactive’s prioritisation of US iCasino sets it apart in a market where most listed peers are still overwhelmingly focused on sports wagering." (Stifel analyst commentary)

This endorsement could affect investor sentiment in the segment as rivals weigh their own product mix, particularly with iGaming adoption still uncertain in key jurisdictions.

Mindway AI and DraftKings Deploy Gamalyze American Football for Responsible Engagement

Mindway AI and DraftKings have partnered to roll out the Gamalyze American Football platform, a responsible gaming initiative targeting NFL fans. The tool gamifies risk awareness by showing users how their decision-making style may influence gambling habits. Launch activities are underway at gas stations and stadiums nationwide during September, leveraging the start of the NFL season to reach a wide audience.

The companies have positioned this as a proactive engagement with player protection goals, distinct from direct marketing of gaming products. This release follows growing scrutiny of responsible sports promotions and compliance with evolving regulation, particularly as sports and casino verticals converge in the US market.

Legal Landscape Remains Complex Despite Market Growth

US online casino legalization efforts show little near-term momentum, based on the insights shared by state lawmakers participating in the iDEA Growth summit. Though vendors continue to introduce new technology — and analysts like Stifel recognise strategic positioning in the space — the regulatory frameworks needed for wider market penetration remain unresolved. Innovation in responsible gambling tools marks a parallel development, but meaningful expansion depends on policy breakthroughs at both the state and federal level.