Legal USA Online Sports Betting in 2024

U.S. legal situation: How we got here

Legalized online sports betting became a reality in May 2018. The U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) ruled in a 6-3 decision that the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was unconstitutional. 

PASPA effectively limited U.S. sports betting to Nevada, although Delaware, Montana, and Oregon carried a legacy clause. PASPA forbade states from regulating and taxing sports betting outside of those exemptions above.

New Jersey led the charge to legalize sports betting. SCOTUS recognized its decade-long crusade against the major professional sports leagues and ruled to overturn the longstanding act. The ruling by SCOTUS put an end to PASPA and allowed each state to enforce and implement its own legal sports betting standards and regulations.

Latest U.S. betting news

Is sports betting legal in the US?

Yes, sports betting is legal in the United States. Legal sports betting dominoes continue to fall, with more than 30 states and jurisdictions having approved online, in-person wagering, or a combination of both.

Sports betting in the United States is subject to varying legality depending on the state. Following a Supreme Court decision in 2018, states were allowed to legalize and regulate sports betting within their borders. This means that the legality of sports betting is determined state-by-state. Some states have fully embraced sports betting, while others have chosen to keep it illegal.

Additionally, several types of wagers remain illegal in all U.S. states. In 2024, election betting markets on political betting sites remain off-limits for American bettors.

For an up-to-date breakdown of where sports betting is legal in the US and in which states, you can consult the following list:

Is sports betting legal in Arkansas?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Arkansas launched online sports betting on Saturday, March 5, 2022. Betly became the state's first online sports betting platform through a partnership with Southland Casino Racing in West Memphis. BetSaracen launched its betting site on May 10, 2022. Oaklawn Sports, a Kambi-powered sportsbook, is on deck.

On Dec. 30, 2021, ARC unanimously approved changes to the state’s gambling rules to permit mobile sports betting via its local casinos. The Arkansas Legislative Council (ALC) will convene on Jan. 28, 2022, to approve or dismiss the rule changes.

Arkansas moved a step closer to launching legal mobile sports betting. On Nov. 19, 2021, State regulators initiated a process for a rule change that would allow retail casinos to accommodate two mobile apps managed by well-known operators.

State Rep. Lee Johnson introduced HB 1942 in April 2021, which would enable casino licenses to operate “online sports pools.” This measure could expand Arkansas sports betting beyond its current retail-only presence. The Arkansas Racing Commission (ARC) regulates sports betting and is considering changes to allow mobile sportsbooks. Any changes require approval by a legislative committee.

The Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort took the state's first legal sports bet on July 1, 2019. Two additional outlets are now authorized to operate sportsbooks either inside of their facilities or neighboring properties.

Is sports betting legal in Arizona?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Legal sports betting kicked off in Arizona on Sept. 9, 2021, hours before the NFL's regular season got underway. Seven sportsbooks are authorized to operate in the Grand Canyon State, with more on the way pending regulatory approval. Arizona’s legislation called for 20 online sports-betting licenses — 10 reserved for Native American tribes and 10 for professional sports teams.

Arizona now joins the ranks of U.S. states to offer legalized online sports betting. In April 2021, Gov. Doug Ducey signed the state's sports wagering bill into law to have retail and online betting options in place by week 1 of the 2021 NFL season. Follow the latest developments in Arizona's journey to legalization.

In August 2021, the Department of Gaming issued event wagering and daily fantasy sports licenses to FanDuel and an event wagering license to Penn National Gaming. Both were licensed as “designees” while their professional sports team and franchise partners received operator licenses. On Aug. 27, 2021, the state's gaming department issued licenses to 18 sports betting operators.

Arizona’s sports-betting licensees are sanctioned to partner with another organization to run their digital and retail sportsbooks for them. FanDuel linked up with the Phoenix Suns, and Penn partnered with Phoenix Raceway. FanDuel will launch an online sportsbook and open a retail outlet at the Footprint Center. Penn will go live with its Barstool Sportsbook platform first, followed by a retail location at the raceway.

On Oct. 22, 2021, the Arizona Department of Gaming approved an application from Rush Street Interactive, clearing the way for BetRivers to launch. RSI gained market access via a partnership with the Arizona Rattlers of the Indoor Football League.

The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and Betfred Sports announced on Nov. 23, 2021, that they had joined forces to launch sports betting at the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort.

Is sports betting legal in Colorado?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Online and retail sports betting came into effect in Colorado on May 1, 2020. The passage of proposition DD, the Legalize Sports Betting with Tax Revenue for Water Projects Measure, was unanimously approved. Colorado has become a major player in U.S. sports betting, with more active online sportsbooks than any state in the nation. On Jan. 26, 2022, Aussie-operator BlueBet reached a skin agreement with Wild Card Saloon & Casino in Blackhawk.

Its monthly handle has surpassed $300 million on five occasions — most recently in November 2021 ($475.4 million).

Is sports betting legal in Connecticut?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

The Connecticut legislature approved sports wagering in May 2021 through a tribal-state agreement. Governor Ned Lamont formally approved House Bill 6451, leaving the Department of the Interior to review the compact, as federal approval is pending.

The gaming bill includes provisions for mobile and retail sports betting, with the services provided by the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan tribes and the Connecticut state lottery. Connecticut’s three-party sports betting market is finalized. Rush Street Interactive will join DraftKings and FanDuel in claiming the state's third and final sports betting license.

On Sept. 9, 2021, Gov. Lamont informed his constituents that the federal government has signed off on the state's plan for sports betting and online gaming.

Retail sports betting in Connecticut kicked off on Thursday, Sept. 30. Nutmeg State Gov. Ned Lamont visited both Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun casinos, where he placed ceremonial first bets.

Connecticut formally launched statewide online sports betting on Oct. 19, 2021, following a seven-day trial period. 

Is sports betting legal in Delaware?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Delaware was the first state outside of Nevada to introduce regulated single-game sports betting. Gov. John Carney placed the state’s first legal single-game bet — and won his Philadelphia Phillies wager — on June 5, 2018. Three racinos now hold sports wagering licenses in the state.

Though approvals for online gambling have been in place since 2013, the Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement took a decade to approve its first online operator. BetRivers launched online sports betting in Delaware on Dec. 27, 2023, and is the lone online sportsbook available in the First State – though that could be changing soon.

House Bill 365 was introduced in mid-April 2024 in the Delaware General Assembly, with a synopsis of the bill saying it provides "the framework and requirements for a competitive mobile sports wagering market in Delaware."

Is sports betting legal in DC?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Sports wagering is legal in Washington, DC under Act 22-594. The legislation cleared congressional review and became law on May 3, 2019. The D.C. Lottery launched its "GambetDC" platform in June 2020, allowing bettors in the District to wager on sports via mobile device or personal computer.

The district has since shifted course, with FanDuel taking over mobile operations in place of GambetDC in April 2024 after the latter was fraught with technical issues and poor lines. And members of the Council of the District of Columbia oversaw formal approval for expanded competition, paving the way for DraftKings, BetMGM, Fanatics and others to join the fray.

Bets can also be placed at one of two sports arenas partnered with an online sports betting company: Capital One Arena (Caesars) and Nationals Park (BetMGM). Both apps are available within a two-block radius of sports stadiums or arenas and from inside a licensed bar or restaurant.

Is sports betting legal in Florida?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Following a sudden twist of events, Hard Rock Bet relaunched in Florida on Nov. 7, 2023, welcoming back the online operator after a two year hiatus. A Nov. 22, 2021, federal ruling put an end to mobile betting and the Hard Rock Sportsbook app. However, despite the ruling, Hard Rock continued to operate in Florida until Dec. 4, 2021.

This is just the beginning, as Florida Seminole Tribes intends to bring in-person sports betting at its casinos at some point in the near future. But the court battle continues into June 2024, with West Flagler asking the U.S. Supreme Court once again to weigh in on the decision by an appeals court to reinstate federal approval for a gaming compact between the state and the tribe.

The Florida-Seminole sports betting compact violated the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) by offering sports betting away from tribal land. According to Judge Dabney Friedrich, the pact also violated Amendment 3, which calls for voter approval before any gaming expansion in Florida. 

Florida's pact with the Seminole Tribe was approved by the U.S. Department of the Interior on August 6, 2021, clearing the path for retail and online sportsbooks to operate on Seminole grounds. Hard Rock Sportsbook, offered by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, launched its mobile operations statewide on Monday, Nov. 1, 2021.

A DraftKings and FanDuel-backed initiative officially missed out on the November 2022 ballot after failing to collect the 891,589 signatures required. The two industry giants pitched in $10 million apiece to back a referendum that would have attempted to dissolve the current Seminole monopoly on Florida gaming. Commercial sportsbooks will now have to wait until 2024 to take another swing at the Florida market.

Is sports betting legal in Illinois?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Illinois sports betting proprietors are on the verge of seeing a major drain on their profits. The state's House and Senate approved an amendment May 29 that would increase the tax rate to as high as 40% for legal operators, depending on their gross gaming revenue.

Online remote registration returned to Illinois on March 5, 2022. The state did away with its in-person registration requirement, meaning folks in the Land of Lincoln no longer have to visit a casino to wager at an online sportsbook.

In late October, the bill passed by the Illinois General Assembly contained a sunset clause for in-person registration of online sports betting, and the requirement officially ended.

BetMGM became the state's seventh online sportsbook partner to launch mobile operations when its platform was activated on Saturday, March 5 —— the same day remote registration was enabled.

Is sports betting legal in Indiana?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Indiana's legal sports betting laws incorporate mobile and in-person wagering. Governor Eric Holcomb endorsed Indiana's sports betting bill (HB 1015) and passed it into law on May 8, 2019. Holcomb later placed the Hoosier State's first legal wager on Sept. 1, 2019. Currently, 13 mobile sportsbook apps operate in the state.

Is sports betting legal in Iowa?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Governor Kim Reynolds passed IA SF 617 in May 2019, paving the way for legal sports betting to officially launch in Iowa on Aug. 15, 2019. Retail sportsbooks operate within state casinos, while mobile sports wagering apps drive sign-ups and pad the monthly handle.

Iowa's sports betting market continues to grow, with the addition of Circa Sports. The Nevada-based operator launched in Iowa on Oct. 7, 2021, via a partnership with the Wild Rose Casino & Resort.

On Jan. 26, 2022, DRF Sportsbook announced it had launched in Iowa. The same day, WynnBET reaffirmed its intentions to enter the Iowa market in Q1 of 2022.

Is sports betting legal in Kansas?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Legal Kansas sports betting kicked off on Sept. 1, 2022, with a ‘soft launch’ that saw six operators go live in the state. A full launch will take place Sept. 8, 2022, just prior to the 2022 NFL season. 

On Friday, Aug. 19, 2022, Kansas's attorney general kiboshed some betting-related regulations that its legal office says need attention.

With legal Kansas sports betting now a reality, new Sunflower State customers can claim the pre-launch offers. Claim the BetMGM Kansas pre-launch promo code today and score $200 in free bets. 

On May 12, 2022, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed the Kansas sports betting bill into law just a day after hinting, "I think some time this week...so stay tuned."  The law will officially take effect on July 1, 2022, but no launch date for sportsbooks was provided.

On Thursday, April 29, 2022, state lawmakers approved the Kansas sports betting bill. As expected, if Gov. Kelly signs the bill (SB 84), legal statewide mobile wagering could touch down in Kansas this fall. 

News from the Sunflower State on Nov. 16, 2021, suggests that Kansas may soon adopt legislation and regulations to legalize online betting. Sports betting operator DraftKings Inc. reached a deal with BHCMC, a Butler National Corp. subsidiary that operates Boot Hill Casino & Resort in Dodge City.

Legal wagering bills, including HB 2444, were introduced in 2020 by both the Kansas House and Senate. However, the legislative sessions were cut short due to the pandemic.

Is sports betting legal in Kentucky?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Kentucky sports betting came into effect on Sept.7, 2023, with the arrival of several legal retail operators began accepting wagers. Gov. Beshear kicked off the party, placing the first legal retail bet at Churchill Downs.

Legal Kentucky online wagering shortly followed, with several online sports betting operators going live in the Bluegrass State on Sept. 28, at 6 a.m., ET. Kentucky reported nearly $250 million in handle for its first month of legal sports betting.  

Kentucky' sports betting pre-registration window opened on Monday, Aug. 28, at 6 a.m. ET. Signing up early allowed new users to claim exclusive sportsbook promos, to assist with wagering come Sept. 28. 

On Aug. 10, 2023, the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) confirmed that seven operators submitted online sports betting applications: bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, Circa, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Penn Interactive.

All eyes were on the Red Mile on Monday, July 10, 2023, when regulators approved wagering rules and announced a September launch of Kentucky sports betting. Kentucky's horse racing tracks and other retail outlets will begin accepting wagers on Sept. 7 at 10 a.m. ET. While online betting will go live at 6 a.m. ET, on Sept. 28.

The wait for legal Kentucky sports betting has come to a favorable conclusion. On March 31, 2023, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551 into law, legalizing retail and online sports betting in Kentucky.

Is sports betting legal in Louisiana?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

PointsBet launched in Louisiana on Sept. 22, 2022, becoming Louisiana's eighth legal sports betting site. 

Regulators were eager to launch Louisiana sports betting by the end of the 2021-22 NFL season. On Friday, Oct. 29, 2021, Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns issued four sports betting licenses. The following gaming properties were authorized to accept in-person sports betting as of Sunday, Oct. 31: Harrah's New Orleans, Horseshoe Bossier City Hotel and Casino, L’Auberge Casino Hotel, and Boomtown Casino.

Louisiana registered its first legal sports bet on Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2021. New Orleans Saints alumn Joe Horn placed the state's inaugural bet Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville.

As for online betting, the practice launched Jan. 28, 2022, allowing seven already approved sports wagering operators (Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, BetRivers, and WynnBET) to accept bets beginning at 8:00 a.m. that day.

On Nov. 11, 2021,  The Golden Nugget in Lake Charles opened the DraftKings Sportsbook. Meanwhile, Penn National Gaming launched a retail sportsbook at L’Auberge. On Dec.9, 2021, FanDuel opened two of the five retail sportsbooks they expect to launch in Louisiana.

Louisiana’s sports betting law puts each of the state's 64 parishes in the spotlight, with the Pelican State allowing each to decide their sports betting fate.

Is sports betting legal in Maine?

Online: Yes 
Retail: Coming 

The wait is over: Legal Maine sports betting debuts on Friday, Nov. 3, at 9 a.m. ET.

DraftKings joins Caesars, who partnered with three of Maine's four Native American tribes, as the only two Maine sportsbooks to launch their respective betting apps statewide. 

Following the publication of Maine's proposed sports betting rules on Jan. 11, 2023, Milton Champion, the executive director of the Maine Gambling Control Unit, stated that legal sports betting could arrive in the Pine Tree State as early as April 2023 or as late as January 2024.

On April 20, 2022, the Maine Senate approved Governor Mills' sports betting proposal by a 23-11 vote. The Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, and Maliseet tribes will gain control of online and mobile sports betting. While timelines aren't defined, the signing of the bill wrests with Governor Mills. 

Previous attempts to legal sports wagering in Maine fell short, including a 2021 bill  — LD 1352 — that was left sitting on the Appropriations Table. At the time, the state Senate cited issues that revolved around tethering sports betting to retail casinos.

In January 2020, Governor Janet Mills famously vetoed bill LD 553 (SP 175), designated as "An Act to Ensure Proper Oversight of Sports Betting in the State." Furthermore, the House of Representatives then failed to override her decision despite the Senate voting to do so.

Is sports betting legal in Maryland?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

After a successful Nov. 21 "soft" launch, Maryland online sports betting fully launched on Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022. Seven of 10 licensed online sportsbooks are now taking wagers. SWARC approved these operators during a Nov. 16, 2022, meeting.

On June 14, 2022, Gov. Hogan penned a letter to the legislature’s Sports Wagering and Application Review Commission (SWARC), whereby he urged the commission to take immediate action on launching mobile sports betting.

Though Maryland has taken a significant step forward with its official introduction of in-person sports betting, it is still lagging behind when it comes to offering mobile wagering. As many as 60 mobile and online sportsbooks are permitted to operate, but online sports betting in Maryland isn't expected to be implemented until sometime in 2022.

On Dec. 9, 2021, MGM National Harbor Casino became the first of the five Maryland retail sportsbooks awarded licenses on Nov. 18, 2021, to officially go live. This followed the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission's two-day "controlled demonstration" that took place earlier the same week.

With the state's first retail sportsbook up and running, two more followed suit on Dec. 10, 2021 — Horseshoe Casino and Live! Casino. State regulators also approved licenses for two off-track betting facilities in Riverboat on the Potomac and Long Shot’s on Dec. 8, 2021.

Through a November 2020 referendum, Maryland voters approved "sports and events betting for the primary purpose of raising revenue for education." Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan signed sports betting bill HB 940 into law in May 2021. State legislators passed a series of enabling statutes, and the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission approved regulations on July 15, 2021.

Is sports betting legal in Massachusetts?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

March 10, 2023, marked the start of legal online Massachusetts sports betting. Bay State bettors gained immediate access to six U.S. online sports betting sites. 

The executive director of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, Karen Wells, announced on Feb. 9, 2023, a tentative go-live date of March 10, 2023, for legal online Massachusetts sports betting.

On Monday, Jan. 31, 2023, legal retail sports betting opened in Massachusetts at three state casinos.

The MGC approved Fanatics' online MA sports betting application on Jan. 12, 2023. The operator will partner with Plainridge Park to deliver online wagering in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts sports betting regulators voiced concerns about Fanatics’ marketing plans at a licensing hearing on Jan. 5, 2023. 

The official launch of retail sports betting in Massachusetts will commence on Jan. 31, 2022, the last possible day the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) reserved for themselves. 

Tweaks to the Massachusetts sports betting model may take time, according to one Massachusetts lawmaker. Rep. David Muradian told Covers at the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) conference in Las Vegas, that MA policymakers didn’t want “the perfect to be the enemy of good” in working through their legal sports betting bill.

On Dec. 13, 2022, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission approved WynnBET's application for a "Category 3" online sports betting license. The move allows WynnBET to apply for a temporary permit, which would allow the betting site to start operations promptly. 

Efforts by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) to separate retail and online sports betting are proving challenging. Decisions to defer legal sports betting license applications for PENN Entertainment Inc.-operated Plainridge Park Casino, along with a decision on the MGM Springfield casino, were put on hold.

Fifteen Massachusetts sports betting operator applications were filed on Nov. 21, 2022. Twelve applications were for mobile sports betting, while three were for retail wagering at the state's three casinos: Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino.

The Massachusetts sports betting timeline remains intact, with a staggered rollout of retail and online sports betting. It was reported on Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022, that DraftKings was calling on regulators to simultaneously launch retail and online sports betting, but its efforts fell short.

The competition for Massachusetts sports betting licenses is heating up. On Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) announced that it received 29 operator "Scoping Surveys" from potential applicants for retail and online sports betting licenses.

The Massachusetts sports betting "scooping survey," distributed by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) to businesses that intend to apply for retail and online sports betting licenses, comes due on Monday, Oct. 17, 2022. 

Online Massachusetts sports betting won't launch in time for Super Bowl. Following three hours of deliberations on Friday, Oct. 8, 20202, the MGC voted on a timeline that delays the start until early March.

Massachusetts sports betting date setting was on the agenda for Oct. 6, 2022, with 2023 as the earliest start date. In fact, "there is no way we could do this any earlier. No way," said MGC Executive Director Karen Wells.

On Sept. 22, 2022, the majority of a group comprising more than 20 sportsbook operators informed the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) that a universal start date for the launch of Massachusetts sports betting is the preferred path forward.

During a meeting on Sept. 8, 2022, Massachusetts Gaming Commissioner Brad Hall restated that Massaschusetts' initial retail and online sportsbooks will not open their doors in the coming weeks. Formal approval for launch remains several months away.

On Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, Massachusetts lawmakers passed legal wagering legislation that will bring online and retail sports betting to MA. The minimum age to bet will be 21, and both professional and collegiate sports are on the table — although wagering on in-state college teams will only be legal during major events like March Madness.

A go-live date has not been announced, but the expectation is that Massachusetts sports betting will roll out sometime during the 2022-23 NFL season.

Massachusetts initially moved closer to legalizing sports betting on Thursday, April 28, 2022. The state senate voted to approve a wagering bill that would allow adults 21 years of age and over to bet money on sports via mobile devices and at state casinos. The main sticking point or difference between the bill proposed by the House in 2021 (bill H 3977) revolved around college sports, which the Senate struck from revised legislation.

Previously, the House supported bill H.4887, which included mobile and retail sports betting provisions. However, the Senate took issue with adding specific sports betting language in its version.

Is sports betting legal in Michigan?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

March 11, 2020, signaled the start of legal sports betting in Michigan. This came less than three months after Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the "Lawful Sports Betting Act" into law. Michigan sports betting offers fully remote registration, eliminating the need to visit a casino and allowing you to register, add funds, and bet from anywhere within state lines.

Out of the 26 casinos in Michigan, there are 22 that currently offer retail sports betting. Most recently, on Nov. 9, 2021, Saginaw Chippewa Gaming Enterprises announced a deal with Kambi to bring its sportsbook platform to both Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort and Saganing Eagles Landing Casino & Hotel.

Is sports betting legal in Mississippi?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Legal sports betting came to Mississippi on Aug. 1, 2018, with the Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC) tasked with regulation and oversight. Bettors can leverage mobile betting capabilities; however, online wagering must take place within the grounds of a casino. On Nov. 12, 2021, MGM Resorts International’s Beau Rivage in Biloxi became the most recent addition to this list, confirming bettors will be able to access BetMGM's mobile app at the location.

The Gaming Control Act, introduced during the state's 2019 legislative session, would have sanctioned the use of mobile sports betting apps anywhere in the state. Sen. Willie Simmons started the conversation, but other MS lawmakers were not ready to change the state's sports betting operations. Subsequently, the bill fell short on Feb. 5, 2019.

In January 2020, a similar bill (MS HB 172) was introduced in the House but failed to gain traction. On Oct. 24, 2023, members of Mississippi's "Mobile-Online Sports Betting Task Force" met with representatives from local gaming industry to discuss the potential of adding a mobile component to the Magnolia State's legal sports betting scene.

Mobile sports betting legislation continued to crawl forward in April 2024, as House Bill 774 was passed by the Mississippi Senate's Gaming Committee following a month of dormancy. But the bill ultimately died in conference April 29, eliminating any chance of legalization of expanded online sports betting in 2024.

Is sports betting legal in Montana?

Online: No
Retail: Yes

In March 2020, legal sports betting landed in Big Sky country. Governor Steve Bullock signed HB725, which revised state lottery laws to authorize sports wagering.

While Montana can tout mobile betting as a legalized activity, there is a caveat. Gov. Bullock passed on the opportunity to establish an open, competitive market in the state. The state lottery and its adopted platform, operated by Greek gaming company Intralot, were awarded the contract without a public bidding process.

Is sports betting legal in Nevada?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

On Oct. 24, 2022, the Nevada Esports Technical Advisory Committee deliberated for fewer than 20 minutes and unanimously approved Nevada’s first regulations for wagering on esports competitions.

Nevada sports betting is a mature market with legalized sports betting dating back to 1949. It was the first state to control sports betting, which organized crime syndicates had previously operated.

Decades of regulated sports betting experience and an established track record helped make it the gold standard for sports betting. Online sports wagering is available, but bettors must first register for an account in person at a casino.

As of November 2021, hopes for remote registration have grown with the announcement that Caesars and Red Rock Resorts have plans for new sports betting platforms that could utilize the feature.

Nevada cracked the $1 billion mark in monthly sports betting for the first time in its history. Figures released by the Nevada Gaming Control Board on Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2021, reveal that sportsbooks secured $1.1 billion in bets during the month of October.

Is sports betting legal in New Hampshire?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

In New Hampshire, sports betting has been legal since July 16, 2019. With the signing of bill HB 480 into law, Gov. Sununu granted the New Hampshire Lottery control over the local betting industry.

Retail and mobile sports betting is available for many sports, and betting on New Hampshire's in-state college teams is also legal. A proposed bill would expand the number of retail sportsbooks and allow them to accept live bets. It's unclear yet if the initiative has positive momentum.

DraftKings became the state's first mobile sports wagering app in December 2019, and they also launched New Hampshire's first retail sportsbook (The Brook) in August 2020.

Is sports betting legal in New Jersey?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

New Jersey launched legal sports betting on June 14, 2018, becoming the second U.S. state to do so. Governor Phil Murphy placed the state's first legal sports bet at Monmouth Park. Online betting is also available, facilitated by fully remote registration, contributing to New Jersey leading the way with points of access.

The Garden State eclipsed the $1 billion mark in sports betting handle for December 2021, totaling $1.23 billion. However, month-over-month revenue from sports betting was $59 million, a 48.6% drop from November.

In November 2021, Prophet, peer-to-peer U.S. sports betting exchange, introduced pre-registration for ProphetExchange.com, its NJ-based exchange. Customers can set prices for other users to bet on, or place bets on the available prices. Exchange The Love, a crowd-funded consumer campaign, supports Prophet's pre-registration launch. Early adopters of Prophet’s sports betting exchange will be rewarded with a deposit match bonus that increases by $25 for every 500 new registrations.

Garden State voters headed to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2021, and re-elected Gov. Phil Murphy by a slim margin. While Murphy was instrumental in rolling out legalized online sports betting, his constituents rejected a constitutional amendment to permit wagering through casinos and current or former horse racetracks on all college sport or athletic events. Betting on New Jersey college teams and out-of-state teams who play games within NJ remains illegal. 

Is sports betting legal in New Mexico?

Online: No
Retail: Yes

The Land of Enchantment was the sixth U.S. state to offer legalized sports betting. While the practice is legal in New Mexico, it is limited to a retail or an in-person experience. Lawmakers haven't passed a sports betting bill to legalize online activity within the state since the fall of PASPA.

Santa Ana Star, operated by the Pueblo of Santa Ana, took the state's first retail sports bet on Oct. 16, 2018. Additional tribal gaming centers have followed, including Hilton Buffalo Thunder Sportsbook, The Sportsbook at the Inn of the Mountain Gods, and the Isleta Resort and Casino Sportsbook. 

Is sports betting legal in New York?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Nearly three years after online sports betting became legal in New York, ESPN still doesn't have its seat at the table. ESPN Bet missed launching in NY ahead of the start of the 2024 NFL regular season, as it awaits final regulatory approval which won't come before Sept. 23.

The era of online and mobile sports betting began on Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022, at 9 a.m. ET. Four licensed mobile sports betting operators — Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Rush Street Interactive (BetRivers) — met all necessary conditions for launch. 

BetMGM entered the market on Monday, Jan. 17, 2022, becoming the state's fifth legal online sports betting site. PointsBet was next to go live as the sportsbook took its first legal NY wager on Jan. 24, 2022. Of the five online sportsbooks that hadn't launched on day one, just two remain inactive: Bally’s and Resorts World are up next. Notably, Bally Bet is unlikely to launch before April 2022.

Retail sports betting was legalized in the wake of PASPA, with the first bet placed on July 16, 2019, at the Rivers Casino in Schenectady.

Despite infighting and opposition from former Governor Andrew Cuomo, New York inched towards legalized mobile sports betting. Cuomo signed legislation for the 2022 fiscal year, including a proposal to allow online sports gambling in the Empire State.

Is sports betting legal in North Carolina?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

North Carolina officially launched online sports betting on March 11, 2024, making the Tar Heel State the 30th U.S. jurisdiction to have legal mobile wagering. NC bettors now have access to eight online sportsbooks, with state laws allowing for up to 12 operators.

The North Carolina Lottery Commission released the first revenue report from online wagering that began March 11, 2024. The Tar Heel State’s eight sportsbook operators combined to generate revenue of $66.5 million on a handle of $659.3 million, kicking off sports betting with a double-digit hold of 10%. 

The road to legalization was paved after North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper signed the state's sports betting bill, HB 347, into law on June 14, 2023, triggering a 12-month window to launch mobile North Carolina sportsbooks. At noon on March 1, 2024, North Carolina opened sports betting pre-registration for mobile and online bettors. 

State lawmakers initially indicated that legalization would occur in January. But North Carolina regulators determined that Jan. 8, 2024, will no longer be the launch date, citing there is still more work that needs to be done for approvals as the reason.  However, the state is still trending in the right direction, as North Carolina began its sports betting operator licensing process on Dec. 1, 2023. 

After passing through the North Carolina House on March 29, 2023, HB 347 was approved by the Senate on June 1, 2023. 

On June 22, 2022, the North Carolina House decided not to proceed with Senate Bill 688. The bill would have legalized online sports betting in the Tar Heel State and allowed the first mobile sportsbooks to launch by 2023.

Legalized yet severely restricted sports betting legislation landed in North Carolina in July 2019. Proposed changes could transform the NC landscape, as neighboring states profit significantly more from their sports betting arrangements. Currently, tribal casinos cannot allow sports betting apps outside of their establishments. If the proposed bill passes and Gov. Roy Cooper signs it into law, the North Carolina Education Lottery Commission will issue up to a dozen interactive sports wagering operator licenses.

Is sports betting legal in North Dakota?

Online: No
Retail: Yes

North Dakota's first retail sportsbook opened its doors on Dec. 1, 2021, as Dakota Nation Sportsbook took its first wager at Dakota Magic Casino in Hankinson. Today, North Dakota is home to three retail sportsbooks on tribal lands. Dakota Connection Casino and Dakota Sioux Casino also feature a Dakota Nation Sportsbook.

In March 2021, North Dakota lawmakers spiked a sports betting (ND 3032) ballot measure. Amendments to the state constitution’s sports wagering prohibitions would have resulted in a 2022 ballot referendum. The latest sports betting blow likely dashes hopes for legal online sports betting until 2025 or later.

Is sports betting legal in Ohio?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

The start of Ohio sports betting represents "...the largest ever simultaneous launch of sports gaming in the United States,” according to the Ohio Casino Control Commission website. Here’s what you need to know about the Ohio sports betting launch.

The launch of Ohio sportsbooks occurred on Jan. 1, 2023, but Kroger will delay its launch of retail sports betting kiosks. The grocery store chain satisfied the necessary requirements to open its retail kiosks, but it won't be ready to go on New year's Day.  

On Monday, Oct. 17, 2022, Fubo TV Inc. announced that it was shuttering its Fubo Sportsbook. One immediate ripple effect was felt on the eve of the 2022-23 NBA season start, as Fubo's market exit leaves the Cleveland Cavaliers with no Ohio sports betting partner. Legal sports betting in Ohio is on track to start Jani. 1, 2023.

Fubo Gaming's market exit leaves the Cleveland Cavaliers with no Ohio sports betting partner. The announcement came about a year after Fubo Gaming announced a "long-term partnership" with the National Basketball Association's Cleveland Cavaliers. 

BetMGM and the Cincinnati Reds inked a multi-year partnership on Oct. 11, 2022. The formal agreement contains plans for a brick-and-mortar BetMGM sportsbook at the Reds’ Great American Ball Park.

As Ohio sports betting waits for the curtain to open, a recent poll shows that 15% of Ohio voters are planning to place a wager.

Legal sports betting in Ohio will start on Jan. 1, 2023. By law, January 1 is the latest start date permissible to launch retail and online sports betting.

On May 4, 2022, the Ohio Casino Control Commission confirmed Ohio will have a universal go-live date. All approved operators will launch on the same day. The OCCC also announced that operators may begin applying for sports betting licenses on June 15, 2022.

The Ohio Casino Control Commission released "Batch 1" of the state's sports betting rules on Jan. 18, 2022. On Dec. 8, 2021, the Senate and House of Representatives passed amendments to HB 29. Two weeks later, Gov. Mike DeWine signed Ohio's sports betting bill into law. Ohioans should expect legal sports wagering to arrive by the end of 2022.

Gov. DeWine has long asserted that sports betting in Ohio is an inevitability. Ohio bettors will have plenty of options when all is said and done, as HB 29 will allow for up to 25 online licenses and 42 retail licenses.

Is sports betting legal in Oregon?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

DraftKings is now the official sportsbook of the Oregon Lottery. The operator took over for Scoreboard on Jan. 18, 2022, as the only online betting site in the state. Retail sportsbooks can be found at two tribal casinos — BetMGM at Spirit Mountain Casino and Sports Wagering Lounge in the Chinook Winds Casino Resort.

Legal sports betting in Oregon resumed on Aug. 27, 2019, with the first wagers taken at the Chinook Winds Casino Resort. Oregon was one of the four states not required to amend the existing tribal-state agreement when PASPA was overturned. Governor Kate Brown has pledged her support for an attempt to overhaul sports betting in the Beaver State.

Is sports betting legal in Pennsylvania?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf put his signature on a gambling expansion bill in October 2017 that later produced legalized sports gambling. The broad legislation also sanctioned online poker and daily fantasy sports (DFS). Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course secured Pennsylvania's first legal sports bet in November 2018. Conversely, PlaySugarHouse became Pennsylvania's first online sportsbook to launch in June 2019.

On Feb. 7, 2022, PointsBet announced it had become the 12th online sportsbook to go live in PA. 

Is sports betting legal in Puerto Rico?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

BetMGM launched its online mobile sports betting app in Puerto Rico on June 8, 2023. Puerto Rico lacks remote registration, meaning customers must confirm their identity in person at the BetMGM Sportsbook at the Casino Del Mar resort in San Juan.

Legal Puerto Rico sports betting came to fruition in 20219. Enacted legislation encompasses online and retail sports betting within the U.S. territory.

Locals and tourists alike frequent the BetMGM Sportsbook at Casino del Mar, the state's first and only legal sports betting outlet. However, we expect online sports betting to go live soon, as BetMGM, DraftKings and FanDuel have each struck market access deals in Puerto Rico.

Is sports betting legal in Rhode Island?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Online sports betting has been legal in Rhode Island since its launch in September 2019. Previously, consumers had to register their sports betting account in person at one of the state's two Twin Rivers casinos.

In July 2020, Gov. Gina Raimondo put her signature on SB 2919 and HB 8097, allowing bettors to complete remote registration. Under the law, two locations can offer sports betting with the Rhode Island's lottery providing regulatory oversight.

Is sports betting legal in South Dakota?

Online: TBD
Retail: Yes

The South Dakota Commission on Gaming (SDCG) recently announced a plan to allow legal sports betting on mobile apps inside Deadwood casinos. Deadwood casinos remain the only establishments eligible and licensed to permit wagering via on-site kiosks. The new plan calls for mobile sports betting apps to accept bets, but only if placed within the facilities themselves.

Sports betting remains restricted to Deadwood and at licensed tribal casinos. On Feb. 25, 2022, legislative committee lawmakers nixed a resolution that would have legalized statewide mobile sports betting via a ballot measure.

Sports betting in South Dakota became legal with the passing of Amendment B on Nov. 3, 2020. Gov. Kristi Noem signed legislation bringing sports gambling to Deadwood. Casinos in the traditional gambling town can legally open sportsbooks. By law, that new rule also allows tribal casinos across the state to open sportsbooks.

Legalized retail sports betting came into effect on Sept. 9, 2021, in Deadwood, South Dakota. These four casinos offer sports betting: Tin Lizzie (BetMGM), Cadillac Jack’s Gaming Resort (BetMGM), Mustang Sally’s (ISI), and the Gold Dust Casino (ISI).

The state legislature approved rules for online sports betting during the 2021 session. The bill that passed prohibits online sports betting in South Dakota.

Is sports betting legal in Tennessee?

Online: Yes
Retail: No

Despite opposition from Gov. Bill Lee, Tennessee voted to authorize online sports betting in May 2019. The sticking point for Gov. Lee was the status of brick-and-mortar outlets. Tennessee's sports betting bill includes provisions for online-only sports wagering, making it one of the few states to implement an online-only program. The growing online market includes brands like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Tennessee Action 24/7.

On Sept. 9, 2021, Barstool Sports' outspoken founder, Dave Portnoy, announced that the Barstool Sportsbook had launched in Tennessee.

The Nashville Predators and Bally's Corporation inked a partnership agreement on Oct. 21, 2021, which makes Bally's the official sports betting partner of the NHL club.

One of the wrinkles with Tennessee's sports betting situation includes a mandatory 10% hold for sportsbook operators. The rule was enacted by the Tennessee Education Lottery, which has proven difficult for sportsbooks to operate with these conditions considering the average hold is approximately 7% in the legalized markets.

Ongoing deliberations with the Sports Wagering Advisory Council include how to address the matter since sportsbook operators face $25,000 in fines if they do not meet the requirement.

Is sports betting legal in Vermont?

Online: Yes
Retail: No

Legal Vermont sports betting debuted on Jan. 11, 2024, at 12:00 a.m. when DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics all launched their respective online sportsbooks. VT legislation allows for up to six sportsbook operators to launch apps and online sports betting sites.

Vermont’s governor signed sports betting bill H.127 into law on June 14, 2023, which authorizes online sports betting sites in the state.

On May 9, 2023, the Vermont House of Representatives voted in favor of a Senate-amended online sports betting bill H.127. We expect Gov. Phil Scott (R) to sign the bill into law imminently. Vermont is expected to begin offering legal sports betting by January 2024.

On April 25, 2023, the Vermont Senate’s finance committee approved an amended version of House Bill 127, legislation that would trigger legal Vermont sports betting via mobile apps and online betting sites.

New Vermont sports betting legislation puts the state on track to legalize its activities. Lawmaker Rep. Matthew Birong introduced House bill 127 on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023.

The committee studying the potential for sports betting in Vermont recommends the model adopted by New York.

Geolocation data spotlights Vermont sports betting interest, yet no legal in-state options exists. On Nov. 1, 2022, the committee investigating the possibility of retail and online sports betting sites in Vermont, heard that hundreds of residents may have been trying to make wagers.

The Vermont sports betting committee favors online-only wagering out-of-the gate but will explore retail opportunities further down the road. The committee met on Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2022, where it heard from New Hampshire Lottery Commission officials about its experience with legal sprts betting.

On Oct. 18, 2022, the Vermont sports betting committee recommended a 20% revenue share and two to six online sportsbooks for the state. 

Vermont sports betting questions loom as the Green Mountain State is the only New England state without any regulated arrangement of event wagering. While Vermont’s Sports Betting Study Committee favors the legalization of event wagering in the state, it has not determined whether online sports betting should be allowed, let alone retail sports betting. 

Numerous bills targeted at legalizing sports betting in Vermont failed to pass muster but resurfaced in 2021 for further consideration. Lead sponsor Sen. Dick Sears and co-sponsors Sen. Michael Sirotkin, Sen. Christopher Pearson, and Sen. Richard Westman put forth bill S.77 which would grant the state lottery control over VT sports betting and permit up to six online operators.

Senators Sears and Sirotkin put forth a mobile-only bill in 2020, but a committee hearing was not assembled. Vermont's bordering states and even its neighbor to the north, Quebec, are in a better position to greenlight sports betting.

Is sports betting legal in Virginia?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Hard Rock became Virginia's first retail sportsbook when it opened its doors on July 8, 2022.

The Commonwealth of Virginia legalized sports wagering in April 2020, with sports bettors placing their first bets in January 2021. Gov. Ralph Northam signed bill SB 384 into law on April 29, 2020, following several revisions in the Virginia State Legislature. The Washington Football Team of the NFL secured a sports betting license from the Virginia Lottery in 2021. That marked the first time an NFL team had obtained a wagering-related license.

Colonial Downs (PointsBet), Digital Gaming Corporation (Betway), and VHL, VA (SI Sportsbook) were all awarded sports betting licenses in November 2021. 

The Old Dominion took in $427.3 million in sports wagers in October, a record monthly handle according to the Virginia Lottery which released the figures on Dec. 2, 2021. 

Is sports betting legal in Washington?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

On Jan. 11, 2022, Maverick Gaming LLC filed a federal lawsuit challenging the sports betting monopoly given to Washington's tribes. Maverick alleges the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) was applied incorrectly, giving the tribes permission to offer gambling that's not available anywhere else in the state.

Retail sports betting is up and running in Washington. On Sept. 9, 2021, the Snoqualmie Tribe became the state's first to launch retail sports betting at its Snoqualmie Casino outside Seattle. Shawn Kemp, the former Seattle SuperSonics star, placed Washington's first ceremonial bet.

On Dec. 29, 2021, Snoqualmie Casino became the first retail location in the state to launch its own mobile betting app. Bettors are limited to using the app while physically at the casino, however, in accordance with state laws.

The Evergreen State saw its second and third retail sportsbooks open in early December: The Stillaguamish and Kalispel tribe rolled out retail sports betting on Dec. 1 and Dec. 4, respectively, at the Angel of the Winds and Northern Quest. 

On Sept. 28, 2021, FanDuel Group announced that it would form a partnership with the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort to bring retail sports betting to Washington State.

Plans for the proposed FanDuel Sportsbook at Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort include three live betting windows and 12 self-serve betting kiosks.

On March 25, 2020, Governor Jay Inslee signed sports betting Bill ESHB 2638 into law. The law permits sports wagering at Class III tribal casinos in the state. However, mobile and online wagering is only allowed when physically on-site at a licensed tribal casino. The Washington State Gambling Commission provides regulatory oversight.

Is sports betting legal in West Virginia?

Online: Yes
Retail: Yes

Legal and regulated sports betting was realized in West Virginia on Aug. 30, 2018. The Penn National Gaming-owned Hollywood Casino was West Virginia's first brick-and-mortar retail sportsbook. With only a handful of online sportsbooks in operation, Sen. Michael Maroney has pushed for reform, introducing modifications to SB 603 to allow bars and restaurants to accommodate online sportsbooks.

Barstool launched its mobile sportsbook in West Virginia on Nov. 22, 2021. On Jan. 26, 2022, PointsBet introduced its online casino to gamblers in WV.

Is sports betting legal in Wisconsin?

Online: Yes (limited)
Retail: Yes

Another Wisconsin tribe will offer sports betting in the near future, courtesy of an amendment to a gaming compact between the Sokaogon Chippewa Community and the state of Wisconsin.

Legal Wisconsin sports betting may get a boost, as Gov. Tony Evers is expanding Wisconsin tribal agreements. Several deals were struck with a handful of tribes, thus allowing them to offer retail and online sports betting on their respective lands. 

Legal sports betting arrived at the Oneida Casino on Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2021. The launch of retail sports betting operations, the first sports betting operation among the 11 Wisconsin tribes with gaming compacts, was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. However, statewide betting has not yet been approved and no timelines for further retail rollouts were announced.

The Oneida Nation and Gov. Tony Evers announced a gaming pact in July 2021 that allows the tribe to operate retail sportsbooks at its casinos.

On Friday, Aug. 20, a notice from the Federal Register indicated that approval of the amendment clears the way for the Oneida Nation to offer sports betting at their gaming properties. The Oneida Nation was the first tribe in Wisconsin to receive approval to operate a sports betting program at a retail casino. The amendment was approved by the U.S. federal government and is now in effect. Statewide mobile betting and wagering on in-state college sports have yet to be authorized.

However, on Feb. 21, 2022, Oneida Casino officially launched its sportsbook app, opening the doors for mobile betting in the state. The practice remains highly limited, though, as bettors can only wager on their mobile devices at select Oneida locations.

On Sept. 2, 2021, International Game Technology (IGT) announced that its PlaySports platform would expand into Wisconsin through an agreement to power sports betting at Oneida Casino, on the Oneida Nation Reservation.

Is sports betting legal in Wyoming?

Online: Yes
Retail: TBD

Sept. 1, 2021, marked the arrival of legal mobile sports betting in Wyoming. The state's gaming commission approved applications from BetMGM and DraftKings, and both launched the same day. Wyoming's mobile-only sports betting bill, signed into law by Governor Mark Gordon (R) on April 5, 2021, permits statewide mobile sports betting. An authorized sportsbook can operate an online portal without having an affiliation to a brick-and-mortar casino.

States moving toward legal sports betting in 2024

We're tracking a list of states moving towards launching legal sports betting in 2024:

Is sports betting legal in Alabama?

Online: TBD
Retail: TBD

Alabama residents will have to wait until 2025 at the earliest for sports betting in their state. The House passed sports betting and gambling bills HB151 and HB152 in mid-February, but amendments to the legislation divided the House and Senate, and sports betting was ultimately removed from the bill in early May.

With more than 35,000 geolocation checks in Alabama during Super Bowl 58 weekend, lawmakers recognized that, with so much illegal gambling happening in the state, providing for a legal option that would generate tax revenue is critical. But with the Senate and the House still at odds over how to implement the legislation, that option isn't close at present.

Is sports betting legal in California?

Online: No
Retail: No

The quest for legal sports betting in California appears to have stagnated, with the California Nations Indian Gaming Association still vehemently opposed to any legal sports betting initiatives presented. This, combined with voters rejecting a pair of propositions that proposed online and retail sports wagering, have put Cali's sports betting future in flux.

On Nov. 8, 2022, voters firmly rejected both California sports betting measures. Those measures would have allowed two different types of sports betting in California.

Ballotpedia, an independent U.S. politics, elections, and policy institution, revealed on Oct. 31, 2022, that $569 million was spent on competing California sports betting bills. The fate of rival California sports betting bills, Propositions 26 and 27, will be decided on Nov. 8, 2022.

On Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, a series of endorsements railing against California sports betting's Proposition 26 were rolled out. The No On Pop 26 campaign, sponsored by California's card room owners, released a statement announcing that "every major California newspaper" stands opposed to the legislation. 

Prop 27, the ballot measure backed by online sports betting operators, seems poised to fail this November. However, the defeat of California sports betting would let them off the hook for unnecessary marketing spending. 

Recent California sports betting polling revealed a slight increase in support. However, the response is insufficient to move the needle in favor of Prop 26 or Prop 27, which will disappoint online sports betting operators.

The fate of California sports betting wrests with voters who will decide its fate on Nov. 8, 2022. The latest Golden State sports betting news shows how California's tribes might be turning the tide against the major online sportsbooks.

Meanwhile, the battle intensifies with the competing sportsbooks and a coalition of native tribes, both releasing TV ads attacking each other's proposals.

Sports betting news out of the Golden State State was not so bright on Friday, Aug. 19, 2022. California's Republican party would oppose Prop 26 and Prop 27, the state's dueling sports betting bills.

On Friday, Aug. 12, 2022, Major League Baseball threw its support behind the ballot measure that would legalize online sports betting in California. The statement from MLB endorsed the integrity provisions in Proposition 27, the legislative measure sponsored by sports betting operators including BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel that would permit online sportsbooks in California.

With the legal sports betting battle raging on in California, it was announced on July 10, 2022, that the state's Democrats oppose the online wagering measure and will stay neutral on the retail initiative. 

On July 5, 2022, a third Native American tribe threw its support behind sportsbook operators in their efforts to bring online sports betting to California.

The Coalition for Safe, Responsible Gaming announced during the week of June 20, 2022, that more than 80 groups back tribal wagering measures.

There's an expensive battle looming in California between online bookmakers and Native American tribes. As of May 3, 2022, the California online-wagering measure put forth by Californians for Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support appears headed for the November ballot. Approximately 1.1 million petition signatures were required, and the group announced that 1.6 million had been secured. Several prominent online operators have provided financial backing for the initiative, including BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel.

On Friday, April 29, 2022, substantial support for one of three California sports betting initiatives was identified through findings from a poll. Nearly 60% of registered voters indicated that they would vote yes on the Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support Act.

This initiative holds backing from seven sports betting operators: FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, WynnBET, Bally Bet, Barstool Sportsbook, and Fanatics. If approved, the act would allow gaming companies and Native American tribes to roll out statewide online sports betting.

Two California card rooms — Hollywood Park Casino and Cal-Pac Rancho Cordova — filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Monday, March 7, 2022. They hope to keep a sports-betting initiative sponsored by nine tribal casinos off the November ballot.

As voters head to the polls for a November 2022 referendum, California's bid to legalize sports betting hangs in the balance. A coalition of California cities recently made a significant push to legalize sports betting in the Golden State, putting forth a proposal titled the California Sports Wagering and Consumer Protection Act.

Projections from Eilers & Krejcik peg CA sports betting revenues at $503 million under the legislative amendment. Additional projections include $282 million during the first six months, factoring in license fees.

Two ongoing attempts to legalize sports betting in California are on the docket. First, a proposed tribal initiative would legalize sports wagering at land-based casinos and horse racing tracks. The legislative effort would authorize online and mobile wagering via platforms affiliated with tribal casinos and racetracks.

Is sports betting legal in Georgia?

Online: No
Retail: No

Despite the best efforts of the state's sports betting proponents, the clock ran out on Georgia's window to introduce sports betting legislation in 2024. The House of Representatives adjourned for the 2024 season on March 28 with SR 579 and SB 386 both failing to advance past the House Rules Committee.

After SB 57 and SB 172 failed to gain traction, hopes were briefly resurrected when the Georgia Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism approved a heavily amended soap box derby bill. However, the Senate did not vote on the last-ditch effort to legalize sports wagering in 2023.

On Aug. 11, 2022, Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams called for a constitutional amendment to allow casinos in Georgia. The Democrat also shared her plan for legalized sports betting, which would fund need-based financial aid in full and make technical college admission free.

News outlet CBS 46 WGCL contacted Geoff Zochodne from Covers for comment: “If Georgia were to legalize sports betting, and depending on who is allowed to take wagers, the state would become one of the bigger markets in the U.S. for bookmakers almost overnight.”  

2022 saw two sports betting bills revived — SB 142 functions as the framework for Georgia sports betting, and SR 135, the revision to Georgia law. Ultimately, SB 142 did not reach the House floor, and SR 135 was substituted with a different and unrelated bill.

Is sports betting legal in Minnesota?

Online: No
Retail: No

Legal sports betting will not be coming to Minnesota in 2024.

A chaotic and tumultuous legislative session turned into nothing for sports betting as the House of Representatives failed to vote on a joint bill with a historical horse racing ban in the final hours of the May 19 legislative session that ended at midnight. 

Minnesota's sports betting momentum for 2024 initially stalled after Senator Jordan Rasmusson introduced an amendment that removed in-game betting from the Minnesota Sports Betting Act 2.0, a move that left fellow lawmakers reeling.

Minnesota is encircled by states and Canadian provinces with legal sports betting, placing pressure on lawmakers to take action. While no 2023 sports betting legislation has been filed in the House or Senate, bipartisan interest remains.

The legislative session concluded on May 23, 2022, and legal sports betting in the Land of 10,000 Lakes desperately needs a lifeboat. The most recent Minnesota sports betting drive stalled as the legislature adjourned without passing a bill.

On May 12, 2022, the Minnesota House passed House File 778 by a vote of 70-57. Next up — the Senate. The bipartisan legislation sought to legalize sports betting and enable Native American tribes to gain control over sports wagering. The tribes could then take bets in person at casinos or remotely online, from residents aged 18 and older.

Other renewed efforts, including a bipartisan state Senate proposal, haven't gained traction. With many Senate Republicans opposed to legalized sports betting, Minnesotans in favor face an uphill battle. 

Lawmakers have contemplated legal Minnesota sports betting bills, including HF767. Still, Minnesota has not hammered out how it would operate and which stakeholders, particularly Minnesota Native American tribes, would be authorized to accept wagers.

On Nov. 4, 2021, at the State Capitol, Rep. Stephenson came out swinging in favor of legalizing sports wagering: "It should be legal. We can get this done. We should get this done. And I’m going to work very hard to get this done." Native American tribes have long feared that legalizing online and mobile wagering would put their casinos out of business, but the opposition has eased. 

Is sports betting legal in Missouri?

Online: Pending
Retail: Pending

Legal Missouri sports betting has been approved by the slimmest margins.

Following a pro sports team-led coalition that secured 340,000 signatures – well above the 180,000 needed to lock down a spot on the November ballot – voters approved the ballot measure in early November, paving the way for Missouri to introduce legal online sports wagering sometime in 2025.

On Jan. 3, 2023, Rep. Dan Houx filed House Bill 556, a follow-up to the bill (HB 4) he filed in September 2022. On Jan. 4, House Rep. Phil Christofanelli (R-St. Peters) sponsored House Bill 581. Both proposals included mobile sports betting, with both casinos and professional sports teams partnering with online sportsbook operators.

Golden Nugget Gaming secured market access on Jan. 20, 2022. In partnership with Affinity Interactive, Golden Nugget will offer mobile sports betting in Missouri when event wagering is legalized.

Missouri's six pro sports teams have long supported legalization. On Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022, the organizations reached an agreement with local casino operators to support betting legislation. Under the agreement, the franchises would earn one mobile skin each, while the casinos would gain three skins or online platforms per retail location. The same structure has been proposed in 2023.

Missouri Sen. Denny Hoskins has been leading the state's charge to add legal sports betting since May 2018, when the Supreme Court gave each state the power to legalize. Republican leadership within the GOP-controlled legislature championed the sentiment and substance of SB256 but balked when video lottery terminals (VLT) came into the conversation.

Is sports betting legal in Nebraska?

Online: Coming
Retail: Coming

On July 25, 2024, an online sports betting bill was introduced in Nebraska by Senator Eliot Bostar during the first day of a special legislative session. Legislative Bill 13 would authorize the state's racinos to offer online sports betting themselves or via partnerships with mobile operators. Additionally, the bill proposes the elimination of Nebraska's ban on wagering on in-state college teams. 

This follows when, on Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, legal Nebraska sports betting took a significant step forward. The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission unanimously recommended approving new rules, including sports gambling for operating casinos.

Formal recommendations by the NRGC do not ensure the legality of gambling on sports in Nebraska. It still needs to go to the Attorney General’s office, be signed by the Governor, and then to the Secretary of state to be ratified.

Through a Nov. 3, 2020 ballot, voters in the Cornhusker State legalized “all games of chance.” After further amendments to sports wagering and other gambling activities at licensed racetrack enclosures, Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts signed Bill LB 561 into law.

Is sports betting legal in Oklahoma?

Online: TBD
Retail: TBD

Oklahoma lawmakers pre-filed at least two bills that would legalize event wagering. Senator Casey Murdock pre-filled SB 1434, which would permit the Oklahoma Lottery Commission to implement sports betting in the Sooner State.

This comes after the announcement a few years ago that Oklahoma lawmakers may soon consider legal sports betting, as Republican Rep. Ken Luttrell introduced House Bill 1027 on Dec. 29, 2022. The proposed legislation calls for in-person and online sports betting via Native American tribes.

In April 2020, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt agreed with two federally recognized tribes on gaming compacts covering sports betting. The Department of the Interior approved the agreements on June 8, 2020, which paved the way for sports betting to begin in Oklahoma. However, opposition to sports betting expansion from state lawmakers and Oklahoma's Attorney General has created more uncertainty.

States unlikely to legalize sports betting

Little to no legislative activity signals that the following states are unlikely to roll out legal sports betting in 2024, if ever. 

Is sports betting legal in Alaska?

Online: No
Retail: No

The 49th state to join the union may if ever, become the "Last Frontier" to legalize sports betting. Alaska is considered an extreme longshot to legislate and formally legalize sports wagering.

That said, efforts to move toward legal Alaska sports betting haven't been completely dormant — Rep. Adam Wool introduced legislation (HB 385) in February 2022 that would bring mobile sports wagering to the state. 

Is sports betting legal in Hawaii?

Online: No
Retail: No

Hawaii is one of just two states, Utah being the other, with no legal gambling provisions. As such, Hawaii sports betting legislation is unlikely to receive a lei greeting in the Aloha State – though legislators are at least keen on looking into the possibility, adopting House Concurrent Resolution 70 aimed at conducting research into the impact of online sports betting in Hawaii.

Is sports betting legal in Idaho?

Online: No
Retail: No

Little to no movement from Idaho lawmakers suggests no momentum or appetite for legal Idaho sports betting. Although many of its neighboring states moved quickly to add sports betting legislation in recent years, not one bill has been proposed in the Gem State.

Is sports betting legal in South Carolina?

Online: No
Retail: No

Nearly every form of gambling is banned in the Palmetto State, and sports betting is no exception. Section 16-19-10 of the South Carolina Code of Laws states that any form of lottery or game of chance, either public or private, cannot be established and is forbidden. It's unlikely that South Carolina and its conservative legislature will consider its first major gaming expansion since 2002.

Is sports betting legal in Texas?

Online: No
Retail: No

Once considered an unlikely candidate to adopt sports betting legislation, changing demographics and investments by outside interests have revived Texas sports betting efforts.

Still, legalization will be an uphill battle. In May 2023, Gov. Dan Patrick quashed thoughts of a Senate vote after Texas House passed HJR 102, a constitutional amendment to bring legal sports betting to the Lone Star State. If the Senate takes no action in 2023, lawmakers will have to wait until the next legislative session in 2025.

Previously, a January 2023 poll revealed overwhelming support for a Senate bill to legalize Texas sports betting and gaming. The survey, conducted by the Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston, revealed that 75% of Texans favor a proposed constitutional amendment that would legalize online sports betting and gaming at as many as four ritzy resorts in the Lone Star State. 

In the run-up to the 2023 NFC Wild Card Round, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones pledged his support for legalizing Texas sports betting. During a KRLD radio interview on Friday, Jan. 13, 2023, Jones put forth an argument consistent with efforts by Texas’ Sports Betting Alliance. 

Texas Sports Betting Alliance spokesperson Cara Gustafson told Covers that the coalition remains "fully focused on legalizing mobile sports betting in Texas during the upcoming legislative session beginning Jan. 10, 2023.”

Is sports betting legal in Utah?

Online: No
Retail: No

Utah is highly doubtful to adopt legalized sports betting, particularly since its anti-gambling position is written into the state constitution. Decades of opposition make any changes to its policy toward gambling unlikely and would signify a massive departure.

Sports betting resources

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Safest USA betting sites for 2024

The sheer proliferation of legalized U.S. sports betting markets has created a lucrative and competitive market. While competition is a boon to consumers, sports betting revenue delivers a significant boost for state coffers.

Our sports betting experts have scoured the web and taken the time to research, review, and test close to 200 online sportsbooks. The result: We have identified the safest online sports betting sites.

BetMGM

BetMGM is the sportsbook platform of MGM Resorts International, an influential name in the hospitality and gaming sector. BetMGM holds licenses in ten U.S. jurisdictions and counting. The use of geolocation software ensures that its registered players are located in the proper jurisdiction.

BetMGM bonus code  |   Sign up for BetMGM

Caesars 

Long the gold standard in casino gambling circles, Caesars Sportsbook now holds valid gaming licenses in more than 20 U.S. states. The company uses GeoComply software to verify and ensure that you are betting in valid jurisdictions. Its Patron Protection policy allows users to address questions regarding account history, security, and potential disputes. The Caesars Sportsbook Privacy Policy informs users how and why Caesars uses your data and protects your privacy.

Caesars review   |   Sign up for Caesars

DraftKings 

The Boston-based operator complies with state laws to ensure that its users are physically located within a state where online sports betting is legal. The DraftKings site uses an SSL-encrypted connection to secure user data. Responsible gaming features and resources offer protection for players.

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FanDuel

The New York-headquartered FanDuel sportsbook places significant emphasis on security. In addition to its IT team, they rely on users to identify vulnerabilities. Vulnerability Disclosure Policy rewards anyone who identifies vulnerabilities in its products and reports them. Solutions are implemented via a partnership with HackerOne.

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