Currently, around 75% of the states in the US, along with Washington D.C., have implemented some type of legalized sports betting. The main concern now is when the remaining states will follow suit.
In 2024, Georgia appears to be the leading candidate to legalize sports betting, while Oklahoma and Missouri also have the potential to do so.
Meanwhile, legislators in Minnesota are advocating for the legalization of sports betting. However, the other states have slim chances of making any progress in legalizing online gambling in the US by 2024.
State of Georgia
The main bill, Senate Bill 386, has already been approved, but it still requires the House's approval. Should it pass in both chambers, it will then be presented as a Constitutional amendment to voters. This bill, SB 386, aims to legalize sports betting through the Georgia Lottery and impose a 20% tax on sports betting revenue.
The state of Oklahoma
Governor Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma has been openly supporting the legalization of sports betting within the state, but his efforts have faced challenges and obstacles. Despite his previous attempts, the key to making this a reality is gaining the support of the Native American tribes in Oklahoma.
These tribes currently hold the sole authority for gaming activities in the state under existing agreements with the government.
However, the governor's recent proposal for sports betting would remove this exclusive right, leading to resistance from members of his own political party.
State of Alabama
The governor of Alabama, Kay Ivey, has expressed her support for the legalization of sports betting, which could potentially bring positive effects.
According to advocates, around $2 billion was illegally wagered within the state in 2023. This, coupled with the fact that neighboring states have already implemented legalized sports betting, it is high time for Alabama to join in. The current proposed bills aim to establish a state lottery, legalize sports betting, and allow for the operation of casinos.
The state of Missouri
Missouri citizens are likely experiencing frustration with the ongoing impasse in legislation surrounding sports betting. While both the House and Senate have proposed bills in support of the activity, Senator Denny Hoskins' decision to block a sports betting bill last year due to its lack of a video lottery terminal provision has halted progress.
In response, the citizens of the state have taken matters into their own hands. The initiative, known as Winning for Missouri Education, aims to present the issue to voters through a Constitutional amendment.
To aid in the collection of the required 180,000 signatures by May 1, FanDuel and DraftKings have contributed $2 million. The group reported on Wednesday that they have already gathered over 100,000 signatures and are aiming for a total of 300,000.
The state of Minnesota
The legislation, known as HF2000, which grants tribes with sole authority over sports betting, has been approved by the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association, as long as it remains in its current form.
According to Andy Platto, the Executive Director of MIGA, if the current version of HF2000 is passed as a law, it would create mobile and retail markets that are operated by Minnesota's Tribal Nations.
This would not only benefit the tribes, but it would also establish a well-regulated and easily accessible market for sports bettors in the state. Additionally, it would foster a competitive market that is crucial for the success of professional sports teams and market partners in our state.
Conclusion
In summary, many states in the US have legalized sports betting, but some are still considering it.
Georgia is leading the way with a pending bill, while Oklahoma faces challenges with tribal support. Alabama and Missouri are stuck in legislative debates, and Minnesota is making progress with tribal agreements. As the year unfolds, more states may join the trend of legalizing online gambling.