West Virginia Gambling Data Sharing Bill Advances To Final Step

Article by : Erik Gibbs Mar 14, 2024

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West Virginia University’s pivotal role in the state’s gambling sector hangs in the balance as a bill awaits final approval, standing merely a signature away from becoming law. Yet, the bill has undergone significant transformations since its inception, reshaping its core provisions.

Under the revised version, West Virginia University researchers would gain access to vital data concerning player activity from gambling entities.

Additionally, the bill seeks to enhance university programs to nurture a skilled workforce tailored to the state’s gambling industry. However, these alterations from the bill’s original draft have stirred discontent among certain quarters.

In early February, two West Virginia House of Delegates members introduced HB5668, which was originally designed to mandate that gambling licensees within the state regularly disclose player activity data to researchers at West Virginia University.

The data sharing measure was intended to facilitate collaborative research efforts with the West Virginia Department of Human Services to understand the prevalence and impact of potential problem gambling statewide.

Starting in January 2026, the Department of Human Services would have been responsible for compiling and presenting an annual report to the state legislature on these findings.

However, significant changes have been made to HB5668 since its introduction, with much of its initial language omitted from the version ultimately approved by the legislature on March 9.

Both the House of Delegates and the Senate have approved an amendment from the Senate Judiciary Committee that alters West Virginia University’s role in gambling research.

While researchers can still access gambling player data, the requirement for licensees to share data has been removed, placing the onus on researchers.

The Department of Human Services is no longer involved in report compilation, with the West Virginia Lottery taking over. Additionally, the focus has shifted from problem gambling to the state’s economy and gaming innovation.

Furthermore, West Virginia University is mandated to develop programs for gaming technology education.

Before the House of Delegates concurred with the Senate amendment, advocates urging for the treatment of problem gambling in West Virginia passionately implored legislators to reject the amended bill.

Despite their fervent appeals, it remains uncertain whether Governor Jim Justice will sign the bill into law.

Regrettably, their pleas seemed to have little sway over the legislative decision-making process. If Governor Justice does sign the bill, it could entail significant new responsibilities for the West Virginia University staff, deviating substantially from the bill’s initial objectives.