20 States Pursuing Sports Betting In 2019
In 2018, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of overturning the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), which effectively opened the door for states to legalize sports betting. As a result, there has been a surge in interest from states looking to capitalize on this opportunity by legalizing sports betting within their borders. In 2019, 20 states are actively pursuing sports betting legislation, hoping to join the growing number of states that have already legalized the activity.
States Currently Pursuing Sports Betting Legislation:
1. Alabama – Despite historically conservative views on gambling, Alabama has shown a growing interest in legalizing sports betting as a means of generating revenue for the state.
2. Arizona – With a strong sports culture and several professional sports teams, Arizona is looking to legalize sports betting to both boost revenue and provide a regulated alternative to illegal gambling.
3. California – As one of the most populous states in the country, California stands to benefit greatly from legalizing sports betting. However, the state faces challenges in navigating tribal gaming compacts and finding a consensus among stakeholders.
4. Colorado – Colorado has already passed legislation to legalize sports betting, with the first bets expected to be placed in 2020. The state hopes to capitalize on its strong sports culture and tourism industry.
5. Connecticut – Connecticut is currently exploring the legalization of sports betting as a way to compete with neighboring states that have already legalized the activity. The state is also considering online betting options to maximize revenue.
6. Florida – While Florida has a strong gaming industry, legalizing sports betting has faced challenges due to existing tribal gaming agreements and political opposition. However, the state continues to pursue legislation that would allow for sports betting.
7. Illinois – Illinois has already passed a sports betting bill, but the launch has been delayed due to concerns over licensing and regulatory issues. The state is expected to begin offering sports betting in the near future.
8. Indiana – Indiana legalized sports betting in 2019, with several casinos and off-track betting facilities already offering sports wagering. The state hopes to generate revenue and attract visitors through sports betting.
9. Iowa – Iowa has also legalized sports betting, with both online and in-person wagering options available. The state aims to regulate and tax the industry to bolster its economy.
10. Kansas – Despite previous opposition to gambling expansion, Kansas is currently considering sports betting legislation as a way to increase revenue and attract tourists to the state.
11. Kentucky – Kentucky is exploring the legalization of sports betting as a means of generating revenue to support infrastructure and education. The state is also eyeing online betting as a potential revenue stream.
12. Louisiana – With a rich sports culture and a strong gaming industry, Louisiana is looking to legalize sports betting to capitalize on the popularity of sports wagering. The state is also considering online options to expand its reach.
13. Maryland – Maryland is one of the states actively pursuing sports betting legislation in 2019, with lawmakers considering the economic benefits of legalization. The state is looking to regulate the industry and prevent illegal gambling.
14. Massachusetts – Massachusetts has shown interest in legalizing sports betting to generate additional revenue and attract visitors to the state. Lawmakers are currently exploring the best approach to regulating the industry.
15. Michigan – Michigan is another state that has recently legalized sports betting, with plans to launch in-person wagering in 2020. The state hopes to capitalize on its strong sports culture and gaming industry.
16. Missouri – Missouri is currently considering sports betting legislation as a way to increase revenue and regulate the industry. Lawmakers are weighing the potential benefits of legalization against concerns about problem gambling.
17. New York – New York has already legalized sports betting at select casinos, with plans to expand to other locations in the future. The state aims to generate revenue and provide a regulated alternative to illegal betting.
18. North Carolina – North Carolina recently legalized sports betting at two tribal casinos, with plans to expand to additional locations in the future. The state hopes to capitalize on the popularity of sports wagering and generate revenue for education.
19. Oregon – Oregon has already launched sports betting through its state lottery, with mobile betting options expected to be available soon. The state aims to regulate and tax the industry to fund public services.
20. Washington D.C. – Washington D.C. has legalized sports betting through a single operator, with plans to launch both in-person and online wagering options. The district hopes to generate revenue and provide a regulated gambling option for residents.
While each state faces unique challenges in legalizing sports betting, the potential economic benefits are driving lawmakers to pursue legislation in 2019. As the landscape of sports betting continues to evolve, it is likely that more states will join the ranks of those pursuing legalization in the near future.