The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) approved the interactive license applications by Hollywood Casino and SugarHouse Casino.

The approvals are subject to meeting certain conditions, but both casinos are expected to get their internet gaming operations up and running as soon as possible.

The PGCB also decided to put the remaining interactive gaming license up for purchase by any qualified gaming entity (QGE). The licenses will be awarded in a random draw at a date to be determined.

The only two Pennsylvania casinos that have not applied for any of the online licenses are The Meadows Racetrack & Casino and Lady Luck Casino.

Churchill Downs, which owns Presque Isle Downs is about to take over managing Lady Luck, so it seems that Lady Luck won’t be going online itself. Churchill can use its Presque Isle licenses for its online operations and promote them through Lady Luck.

The Meadows is leased by Penn National. As mentioned, it already has licenses through Hollywood Casino, so it too will probably not apply. At $4 million for each license, it is not a cheap process.

The PGCB meeting explained that any QGE could enter the random draw for the remaining licenses. That means that it is now possible for an interactive license to be acquired by an organization that is not a licensed Pennsylvania casino.