In the United States, sports betting is illegal. But some states are taking steps to legalize this form of gambling. Tennessee, Kentucky and New Jersey are among them. Here are some of these states’ laws on sports betting. If you’re interested in legalizing sports betting, read on to learn about the latest developments in these states.
Legalization of sports betting in the U.S.
Legalization of sports betting in the United States is a complicated issue. The leagues, casinos, and pro athletes are not the only stakeholders in this debate. The unions representing professional athletes have also demanded a seat at the table. The gaming industry and Native American tribes are also opposed to sports betting. Congress has the option to get involved if it so chooses.
While sports betting has increased in popularity since its introduction in 2010, the market remains in its infancy. Each year, sports betting bills are introduced in various jurisdictions across the country. Some of these bills would create regulated markets, similar to those in New Jersey, while others would establish online and in-person sportsbooks.
Legalization of sports betting in New Jersey
After a long legal battle, New Jersey has finally legalized sports betting, which has made it possible for people across the state to bet on their favorite sports. Sports betting is a huge industry in the U.S., and around half the states and Washington D.C. currently offer it. With the legalization, the industry is expected to grow even further. According to the American Gaming Association, sports betting will generate $1.8 billion in revenue in the first half of 2018, and around $1 billion in all of 2020. Moreover, analysts at Macquarie Research expect the industry to reach $30 billion in 2030.
The case was originally known as Christie v. NCAA and was heard by both the U.S. Supreme Court and the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. The case was decided in December 2017, with Justice Samuel Alito writing the majority opinion. The ruling was favorable for New Jersey, as it would enable the state to start its own sports betting operation.
Legalization of sports betting in Tennessee
Legalization of sports betting in Tennessee is nearing. The state recently enacted a bill that will allow sports betting, with the hope of launching the first sportsbook in the state by 2020. Until late 2018, legal sports betting in Tennessee seemed a long shot, but it is finally on the way. A bill that allows for sports betting has already passed the state legislature, and the governor’s office has allowed it to be implemented as law. Until then, the state will have no sports casinos, but it will be possible to bet on sports games online.
The bill was passed by a 19-12 vote in the House and 58-37 in the Senate. It made Tennessee the first state to legalize sports betting. However, it only legalized online and mobile betting, and did not require land-based betting sites. As a result, Gov. Bill Lee has allowed the bill to become law without his signature. The first wagers are expected to be placed in November 2020.
Legalization of sports betting in Kentucky
Legislators in Kentucky are considering introducing a bill to legalize sports betting. Senators are concerned that opposition from rural residents will make it difficult to pass the bill in the coming years. However, the state legislature only sits for 30 days in odd-numbered years, and lawmakers must have three-fifths of the votes to pass a bill. A legalized sports betting industry could provide Kentucky with significant tax revenue.
Representative Adam Koenig and senator David Yates are pushing for legalizing sports betting in Kentucky. Their bills would legalize online sports gambling, DFS, and poker, and would link with state racetracks. Rep. Koenig, the bill sponsor, announced that he would introduce a sports betting bill for the fourth straight year. The bill passed the House on March 18 and is headed to the Senate for further consideration.