The state is exploring the possibility of joining the agreement, but no timeline exists
Pennsylvania is on the path to becoming the sixth state to join the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), allowing it to share online poker player pools with other participating states. This development comes after months of advocacy from players and industry groups pushing for Pennsylvania to enter the multi-state compact, which already includes Nevada, New Jersey, Delaware, Michigan, and most recently, West Virginia.
Governor Josh Shapiro has taken a key step in advancing Pennsylvania’s participation. Last week, he directed the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) to start negotiations for joining MSIGA, aiming to enhance the state’s competitive edge in the online gambling industry. Shapiro’s request underscores the importance of shared liquidity, which can boost player traffic and prize pools, benefiting both the state and poker players.
For some time, poker advocates in Keystone State, the fifth most populated state in the US, have been eager for this move. Earlier efforts to push a bill through the state legislature failed, despite the momentum of the #GrowPAPoker social media campaign, which raised awareness of the benefits of joining MSIGA. Players and industry voices alike have been calling for this change to ensure Pennsylvania remains a key player in the online poker scene.
Although the state has started the process of joining the agreement, it could still be a while before Pennsylvania fully integrates. Even though West Virginia joined MSIGA in late 2023, it has yet to launch online poker. Pennsylvania, however, already has several active online poker platforms, such as PokerStars PA, WSOP PA, and BetMGM Poker PA, meaning it may see shared liquidity sooner than other states.
This step signals a significant shift for online poker in Pennsylvania, potentially opening the door for larger tournaments and a more vibrant poker ecosystem.
