A Major Step Toward a Regulated iGaming Future
Alberta’s iGaming market took a major step forward this week as the iGaming Alberta Act officially passed its second reading in the provincial legislature. Bill 48, which seeks to create a competitive and regulated online gambling environment, is now moving into the committee review phase, positioning Alberta to potentially become Canada’s second fully open iGaming market after Ontario.
For Alberta, this is more than just an expansion of gambling—it’s about modernization, consumer protection, and economic opportunity. With over half of the province’s online gambling currently flowing to grey market operators, the government’s move to regulate private-sector platforms aims to recapture lost revenue while safeguarding player welfare.
What the iGaming Alberta Act Proposes
Bill 48 lays the foundation for a regulated framework where private operators of online casinos, sportsbooks, and poker rooms can legally offer services in Alberta. Under the proposed model:
- Private operators will contract with a newly created Alberta iGaming Corporation.
- Provincial regulators will oversee market integrity, responsible gambling initiatives, and consumer protections.
- Revenue from licensed online gambling will help fund social initiatives and First Nations programs.
Currently, Play Alberta, operated by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission (AGLC), is the only provincially regulated platform. However, estimates suggest that grey market sites capture over 50% of Alberta’s total online gaming activity. By redirecting players to licensed operators, the government hopes to ensure greater consumer protections and capture substantial economic benefits.
Echoes of Ontario’s Success
Alberta’s approach mirrors the model Ontario successfully launched in 2022, which opened its doors to private iGaming operators while maintaining a strong regulatory oversight. Ontario’s iGaming market has since exploded, delivering record tax revenues and establishing a highly competitive, diverse gambling environment.
Alberta is positioning itself to replicate this success, but with lessons learned: Bill 48 explicitly mentions the creation of a centralized self-exclusion system from the outset, aiming to address responsible gambling concerns proactively—something Ontario implemented later.
Early Criticism and Challenges
Despite broad support, some lawmakers and industry observers have raised concerns. Critics argue the bill lacks clear guidelines on crucial topics such as:
- Advertising restrictions to prevent excessive gambling promotions.
- Specific responsible gaming standards and intervention strategies.
- Licensing fees and tax structures for private operators.
Opposition leaders, including NDP representatives, have expressed concern that rushing the bill without fully developed operational guidelines could lead to pitfalls seen in other emerging markets. However, government officials maintain that the framework will be built through subsequent regulations before any market launch.
The reality is that Alberta, like other provinces, must walk a fine line between innovation and public interest. A transparent, well-enforced regulatory regime will be essential to building player trust and long-term market stability.
Timeline for Launch
If Bill 48 successfully passes the upcoming committee review and third reading, Alberta could see its private iGaming market launch by late 2025 or early 2026. Industry experts expect a phased roll-out similar to Ontario, where initial operators are vetted carefully before the market scales.
The government’s approach suggests a desire to balance fast action with careful planning. In doing so, Alberta hopes to build a thriving, safe, and lucrative iGaming market that strengthens its economy while safeguarding consumers.
Conclusion
Alberta’s advancement of the iGaming Alberta Act signals a pivotal shift in the Canadian online gambling landscape. If successful, the province will join Ontario in setting new standards for regulated private-sector online gambling in North America.
As more jurisdictions worldwide recognize the economic and social value of properly regulated iGaming, Alberta’s proactive approach positions it as a serious player in the future of digital gaming.
