US Gaming: Sports betting continues to thrive as 7 more states push for legalisation

Which states are next to legalise sports and mobile betting?

At least seven US states are preparing to introduce sports and mobile betting. Although many were expecting new laws to  take more time to become effective, the economic downturn caused by the pandemic pushed various states to pull up their socks and push their timelines forward.

In 2018, the U.S Supreme Court announced that it will be retracting the PASPA bill which prevented states from offering legal sports betting, with a few exceptions.

Though at first, many predicted that it would take years for legal sports betting to be introduced by states across the U.S, many states are now rushing to legalise sports betting and benefit from a new source of revenue, especially due to the challenges faced from COVID-19.

The current situation:

Currently, U.S legal sports betting is allowed in 21 states whilst several others are aiming to legalise sports betting soon. However, the importance of the legalisation of sports betting is not solely on gaining the licence but promoting and accepting those laws that would determine how betting would work in that specific state.

State of play:

Maryland

Voters approved sports betting back in November, 2020 but the legalisation that would allow sports betting is yet to be approved.

Mississipi

Retail sports betting is legal within the state while mobile betting is restricted to land-based casinos.
Mississipi has failed many times in its pursuit to legalise sports betting but with three bills set to be introduced this year – it looks like 2021 may just be the year for Mississipi.

Nebraska

In the Mid-West, Nebraska has seen a number of sports betting proposed laws turned down. However, with residents approving casinos last November, Nebraska Senator Justin Wayne (pictured) is looking at the opportunity to push the legalisation of the Gaming of Skill Act – which will legalise sports betting and a restricted amount of online poker games. Nebraska are also looking at the possibility of allowing sports betting at casino racetracks. The fees for the licence are estimated to be around $1million. Mobile betting will also be geo-fenced to casino properties

New Hampshire

The state is home to the world renowned DraftKings – who were given a monopoly apart from the one held by lottery-focused betting firm – Intralot.  New Hampshire legislators will come across a set of new Bills which look to eliminate sports betting restrictions. will look to remove the 10-licence cap and allow live betting. would let more towns vote on the decision regarding retail sportsbook and will give a clear and concise language regarding the ballot question.

New Mexico

New Mexico could see the expansion of gaming at racinos which would increase state offerings on top of sports betting at various tribal casinos.  A new proposed law would legitimatise sports betting and several table games within New Mexico`s five racetracks which operate slot machines and various table games. The proposed law will also allow state tribal casinos to offer betting apps. As it stands, the current law allows up to 6 racinos which means that six licences are available for both sports betting and table games. The licence would require a $10,000 application fee,  an annual $5,000 renewal fee and a 10% tax contribution.

North Dakota

North Dakota sports betting could also go online. The Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians had recently announced, during 2020, a possible collaboration with IGT to launch sports betting at their casinos.

Washington

Washington is set to include card rooms and racetracks to their betting portfolio. Last year, legislators passed a bill that allowed sports betting but its still not finalised. The initiatives being taken by these states are aimed at increasing tax revenue. Despite COVID-19, statistics show that gaming records  are continuing to be broken in the US when it comes to sports betting. Source:

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