The Internet Gaming and Consumer Protection Act of 2026 aims to establish a regulated framework for internet gaming (iGaming) in the District of Columbia, focusing on licensing, consumer protection, responsible gaming, taxation, and enforcement. The legislation is designed to bring the currently unregulated online gambling activities of District residents into a safe and accountable environment, setting a minimum age of 21 for participants and imposing a 25% tax on adjusted gross gaming revenue. Key provisions include the creation of a Community Reinvestment Fund, the prohibition of unlicensed sweepstakes gaming, and requirements for Certified Business Enterprise participation plans for operators, ensuring that at least 35% of their operating budget is contracted with local businesses.

The bill also mandates strict compliance measures, including age verification and identity checks for patrons, responsible gaming tools, and cybersecurity protections for user data. It requires operators to pay a regulatory assessment of 2% of their adjusted gross revenue for the administration of iGaming, with the first $500,000 of tax revenue allocated to the Department of Behavioral Health for gambling addiction services. Enforcement provisions include civil fines and the authority to suspend or revoke licenses for violations, with the Chief Financial Officer overseeing the implementation of rules and the application process for operators. The act will take effect once its fiscal impact is included in an approved budget and financial plan.