British Columbia is facing mounting pressure from industry insiders to reform its online gambling regulations. Currently, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) is the only legal option for residents who want to place a bet without leaving their house. However, private gambling operators are no longer sitting idly by. Instead, they’re calling on the province to follow in Ontario’s footsteps and open up the market. With Alberta heading in that same direction, British Columbia is facing growing pressure to keep up with recent developments in Canadian online gaming.
Conversations around this topic are still in their early stages. Amee Barber, a consultant lobbyist, has officially registered efforts to engage with government agencies on behalf of the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA) and the Canadian Online Gaming Alliance (COGA). Their goal is to discuss regulation models already implemented in places like Ontario. Troy Ross, a seasoned voice in the industry and spokesperson for COGA, emphasized that their mission is to educate policymakers rather than push for an immediate overhaul. While he acknowledges the growing interest in regulated iGaming, Ross also cautioned against assuming any swift changes are on the horizon in B.C.
Across other parts of Canada, players aren’t locked into one option like players in B.C. Instead, they can shop around for platforms that offer better features, like seamless digital interfaces, fast payments, and modern banking options. According to iGaming writer Alex Hoffmann, players in provinces with open markets can choose from casinos that payout quickly, offering faster withdrawals, fewer delays, and multiple payment methods. For players wanting a smooth, convenient gambling experience without ever stepping foot in a physical casino, this freedom makes a massive difference. If B.C were to follow suit, residents could finally tap into these same benefits without needing to settle for offshore options.
Troy Ross, a veteran in the industry and a spokesperson for COGA, says the goal isn’t to rush B.C. into change but to educate lawmakers about what’s possible. COGA represents operators already licensed in Ontario and other major markets. “Ontario has nearly 90% of the market channelled into regulated platforms,” Ross told Odds Shark. “That means nearly all of the play is happening where there are real rules and oversight.”
Despite that, B.C. seems content with the current setup. In a statement, the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General said there are no plans to change how gambling is regulated right now. Officials cited concerns about losing control over revenue streams, especially since profits from PlayNow go directly into provincial programs. There’s also concern about the flood of advertising and increased visibility of gambling seen in other provinces since the regulation.
Critics of the monopoly say it’s simply outdated. PlayNow doesn’t match the pace or polish of what’s available elsewhere. More competitive platforms offer slicker design, more games, and better promotions. For many, that’s reason enough to look beyond provincial borders.
For now, the government’s staying on the sidelines. Officials say they’re watching developments in Ontario and Alberta, but aren’t ready to commit. As more Canadians gain access to flexible, fast-paying platforms, pressure on B.C. will only increase.
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Check these websites for free gambling addiction resources.
https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga
https://www.cprg.ca/
https://www.responsiblegambling.org/