Alberta Passes Bill Paving Way for Gambling Expansion

Alberta has officially expanded the authority over gaming management in the province beyond the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC). The new legislation, Bill 16, now acknowledges that the provincial government also has the power to conduct and manage gaming activities.

Legislation Details

Bill 16, known as the Red Tape Reduction Statutes Amendment Act, was recently passed by the Alberta legislature. This bill includes amendments to the provincial Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act and has received final approval. The press secretary for Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Minister Dale Nally, Nicky Gocuan, confirmed that these amendments, clarifying ministerial authority over gaming, took effect with Royal Assent.

This legislative change clears the way for the government to potentially license third-party operators to offer gaming services in Alberta. These services would complement the AGLC's existing PlayAlberta online sportsbook and casino.

Provincial Government Review

The amendment comes as part of the provincial government's ongoing review of the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act. Premier Danielle Smith has tasked Minister Nally with exploring new opportunities for online gaming and sports betting. Bill 16 affirms the government's authority to manage an expansion of Alberta's gaming market.

"We will engage with all 47 First Nations and the six First Nation casino operators," said Gocuan. "Their feedback on iGaming is crucial for our policy development as we move towards a more open regulated online gaming market."

The Alberta government is also examining best practices from other jurisdictions, including Ontario, to inform its strategy.

Stakeholder Engagement

The recent SBC Summit North America highlighted Alberta's progress on its gaming review. Bruce Caughill, Managing Director of Canada for Rush Street Interactive, suggested that Alberta might establish a separate agency to oversee iGaming, similar to Ontario's iGaming Ontario.

There is optimism for a 2025 launch of an expanded gaming market in Alberta. "There's a desire in the Alberta government to make this happen quickly," Caughill said. "But there's still a long way to go."

Minister Nally, speaking at ICE London in February, emphasised Alberta's potential as a premier hub for iGaming due to its population, low corporate taxes, and high disposable incomes. However, Nally's office has reiterated that Alberta's iGaming strategy must align with the unique needs of its gaming market and serve the interests of all Albertans.

Industry Impact

Paul Burns, President of the Canadian Gaming Association, noted that Alberta has historically had some of the highest per-capita spending on gambling in Canada. New operators entering the market to compete with the AGLC would find a robust gaming marketplace.

As Alberta moves forward with its gaming review, stakeholders remain engaged, and all signs indicate a dynamic future for the province's gaming industry.