There’s not a whole lot in roulette to stir up controversy. The dealer spin can be a topic of discussion, especially among those who think they can spot the “soft” guy in the casino. But one thing that does continue to ruffle a few feathers is when the dealer calls “no more bets.” Have you been cut off? Let’s talk about it.

On certain online casinos, I won’t mention names, the rules have changed recently. Those that once might have allowed bets well into the spin are now cutting it off before the spin takes place. Many are wondering why – or at least why now?

One possibility is that these are countermeasures. Casinos – mostly the Internet variety – have to stand out and lure players however they can. Once they get you in, though, with promises of winning in every possible way with unbelievable player odds, they gradually remove the best options over time. It’s a bit like what we’re seeing with airlines the last few years. They lure you in with an attractive base price, but then after the taxes and fees, then the baggage fees, and now the carry-on fees (thanks Spirit), suddenly it’s not so attractive anymore.

Of course, it also could be that folks were dropping their bets a little too close to when the ball dropped, and the casino wanted to establish a clear buffer zone there.

If an autowheel is used, you’re technically supposed to enjoy a 20-second window before bets are called, but you might see that start to evaporate in the near future, as well. After all, the Internet isn’t bound to any specific country’s rules, per se. In the U.S., you’re still allowed to continue betting after the ball has been spun. At that point, it’s somewhat random when the dealer will waive his arms to end the betting for that spin.

Personally, it’s never been that big of an issue, but I can see the indecisive roulette player taking this change as a make or break for where they play.