Lobbying efforts intensify around Washington, DC online gaming legislation

Gambling industry advocates have increased efforts to advance online gaming legislation in Washington, D.C., with the Sports Betting Alliance reportedly spending $41,000 per month on local lobbying services, according to a report by Complete iGaming.

The alliance, whose members include DraftKings and FanDuel, is backing the passage of the Internet Gaming and Consumer Protection Act of 2026, a bill introduced in March by Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder. The proposal would establish a regulated online gambling market in the nation's capital.

The legislation was submitted to the Office of the Secretary and later referred to the Committee on Human Services. A public hearing on the measure took place in May. However, the bill has not progressed further through the legislative process since then.

Industry groups enter election discussion

Lobbying activity surrounding the proposal has coincided with political spending tied to Washington, D.C.'s 2026 election cycle.

Residents have received mailers supporting the reelection campaigns of Ward 5 Councilmember Zachary Parker, Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen, At-Large Councilmember Doni Crawford and Council Chairman Phil Mendelson.

The mailers were funded by American Future, a pro-gambling super PAC financed primarily by gaming industry interests. The effort reportedly cost the organization $417,000.

Lawmakers offer differing views

The involvement of the Sports Betting Alliance and American Future has generated differing reactions from elected officials.

Felder argued that money currently spent on offshore gambling would remain in the capital under a regulated market.

However, during the public hearing, At-Large Councilmember Christina Henderson said the bill would only fund gambling addictions.

The debate over the proposal has become a topic in the city's 2026 election cycle while lawmakers continue to consider the measure.