Where Sports Betting is Legal in the US
The United States has witnessed a significant transformation in the realm of sports betting, as various states have embraced the legalization of this once-taboo activity. Below is an in-depth look at the timeline and historical milestones of legal sports betting across different states in the nation.
Indiana: Pioneering the Movement
Can you bet online? Yes
Indiana played a pivotal role in kickstarting the nationwide trend of legal sports betting. The state’s journey began on May 8, 2019, when legislation legalizing sports betting was signed into law. Come September 1 of the same year, the doors were officially opened to legal sports wagers. Notably, Indiana Grand Casino, Ameristar Casino, and Hollywood Casino were at the forefront of this movement, accepting the first legal bets. With over a dozen mobile sportsbooks now operational and several retail sportsbooks within casinos, Indiana stands as a testament to the success of a well-regulated market.
New Jersey: Breaking Barriers
Can you bet online? Yes
New Jersey’s relentless battle against major sports leagues culminated in a historic victory in May 2018. The Supreme Court’s decision declared the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) unconstitutional, granting states the authority to legalize sports betting. Quickly seizing the opportunity, New Jersey emerged as a trailblazer in online sports betting. With an array of over two dozen online sportsbooks, the state has solidified its position as a competitive and innovative hub for sports betting enthusiasts.
Colorado: A Model of Accessibility
Can you bet online? Yes
On May 1, 2020, Colorado joined the ranks of states embracing legal sports wagers. Its comprehensive laws, allowing full mobile betting, have created an environment conducive to both consumer enjoyment and competition among sportsbooks. The early entrants, including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetRivers, and BetMGM, set the tone for a flourishing market. The state’s accommodating regulatory framework and favorable tax rates have propelled Colorado into becoming a thriving center for online sports betting.
Arizona: Uniting for Legalization
Can you bet online? Yes
In 2021, Arizona saw a collaborative effort between the governor’s office, professional sports teams, Native American gaming tribes, and top sportsbooks. The result was the legalization of statewide mobile wagering, presenting an opportunity for both residents and tourists to engage in legal sports betting activities within the Grand Canyon state.
Pennsylvania: Overcoming Challenges
Can you bet online? Yes
Pennsylvania ventured into the world of mobile sports betting in May 2019, though the full array of sportsbooks didn’t launch until later in the year. Despite navigating high tax rates, the state quickly gained prominence in the sports betting landscape, establishing itself as a prominent market for bettors.
Tennessee: Online-Only Innovation
Can you bet online? Yes
Tennessee adopted a unique online-only approach to sports betting, sans any retail sportsbooks. While this opened doors for market entry, high entry fees and a mandatory revenue hold requirement have raised concerns. The state’s endeavor to maintain a 10% revenue hold, higher than the industry standard, warrants ongoing observation.
West Virginia: Overcoming Teething Issues
Can you bet online? Yes
Although West Virginia faced initial hiccups, mobile betting gained full momentum by August 2019. A mix of national operators and local sportsbooks have since solidified their presence, marking West Virginia as a notable player in the sports betting arena.
Illinois: Adaptation Amid Challenges
Can you bet online? Yes
Illinois signed its sports betting bill into law in June 2019. Despite launching just before the pandemic’s onset in March 2020, the state witnessed the establishment of sports betting kiosks in iconic stadiums like Wrigley Field and the United Center. Seven mobile sportsbooks currently operate, with further expansion anticipated.
Virginia Sports Betting: An Early Start to Digital Dominance
Can you bet online? Yes
Virginia made a splash in the sports betting scene when it introduced online sports betting on January 21, 2021. FanDuel took the lead, accepting the commonwealth’s first legal wager, just in time for Super Bowl LV. Benefitting from strategic partnerships, including one with the Washington Commanders, FanDuel’s early entry set the stage for a flurry of sportsbook launches. The state’s 2020 sports betting law allowed for up to 12 untethered mobile operators, fostering a competitive marketplace. Notably, brick-and-mortar casinos also sprouted in Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth, offering a multifaceted gaming experience.
Connecticut Sports Betting: Pioneering Agreements and a Quest for Partnerships
Can you bet online? Yes
Connecticut’s journey into legal sports betting was marked by groundbreaking agreements between Governor Ned Lamont and the state’s two gaming tribes. A mobile sports wagering and casino bill was signed into law in 2021, introducing a promising avenue for mobile betting. Despite initial progress, the state lottery’s search for a new mobile sportsbook partner slowed down the process. However, prominent names like DraftKings and FanDuel have already secured their spots, collaborating with Connecticut’s tribes for access to the state’s market.
Iowa Sports Betting: Building a Robust Mobile Market
Can you bet online? Yes
Iowa’s sports betting journey began with the signing of its sports betting law in 2019, opening the doors for legal wagers in August of the same year. The state has embraced mobile betting, creating a dynamic environment where local sportsbooks vie with major operators. Collaborations with casinos have spurred the growth of retail sportsbooks throughout the state, creating a balanced landscape of both digital and physical wagering options.
Louisiana Sports Betting: A Triumph for Voter Approval
Can you bet online? Yes
In 2020, Louisiana voters in 55 of the state’s 64 parishes granted their approval for legal sports betting through a ballot referendum. This positive outcome paved the way for a legislative effort to bring mobile betting to the state. In early 2022, mobile betting made its debut, enhancing the sports betting experience for Louisianans and visitors alike. Retail sportsbooks, primarily hosted by commercial casinos, horse tracks, and tribal casinos, have also flourished, enriching the state’s vibrant gambling scene.
Michigan Sports Betting: A Flourishing Market with Diverse Offerings
Can you bet online? Yes
Michigan’s legal sports betting journey commenced in 2021, with a robust launch of both retail and online wagering. A noteworthy feature of Michigan’s market is the diversity of options available to bettors. The state boasts 15 mobile sportsbooks, catering to passionate sports fans and contributing to substantial sports betting revenue. The availability of mobile casino wagering further solidifies Michigan’s position as a significant player in the industry.
New York Sports Betting: A Late Entry with Swift Dominance
Can you bet online? Yes
New York’s entrance into legal sports betting was marked by a surprising turn of events. After years of resistance, Governor Andrew Cuomo championed online sports betting as part of the state’s budget plan in 2021. This marked a significant shift, resulting in a competitive marketplace with nine operators approved to launch. However, the state’s high tax rate posed challenges, with operators paying up to a 51% tax rate, the highest in the nation. Despite this, New York has emerged as a prominent sports betting market in a short span of time.
Wyoming Sports Betting: A Digital-Only Frontier
Can you bet online? Yes
Wyoming’s foray into legal sports betting took an unexpected digital-first approach. The state passed a statewide mobile sports betting bill in 2021, becoming one of the few states to offer online-only wagering. With no physical casinos, the focus is solely on digital platforms. Additionally, Wyoming sets itself apart by allowing wagering at the age of 18, rather than the typical 21.
Arkansas Sports Betting: A Blend of Retail and Digital Expansion
Can you bet online? Yes
Arkansas embraced legal sports betting in 2019, with Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort leading the charge. The state’s gaming expansion bill paved the way for retail sports betting. Since then, Arkansas has taken steps to expand into mobile betting, although the number of mobile operators remains limited. As the landscape evolves, Arkansas is poised to balance retail and digital options for its bettors.
Delaware Sports Betting: A Pioneering Start with Limited Digital Reach
Can you bet online? No
Delaware holds the distinction of being the first state to embrace legal sports betting post the Supreme Court ruling. Even ahead of neighboring New Jersey, which played a pivotal role in challenging the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), Delaware introduced legal wagering. However, the lack of mobile betting and the decision to have the lottery manage operations has posed challenges, leading to limited success in comparison to its counterparts.
Maryland Sports Betting: A Thriving Playground for Diverse Operators
Can you bet online? Yes
Maryland’s sports betting landscape boasts a healthy mix of options, both online and retail. With the passage of a bill allowing numerous online and retail sportsbooks, Maryland’s ambitious approach aims to provide as many as 60 online and over 30 retail betting platforms. The resounding backing of a sports betting ballot measure by Maryland voters in 2020 set the stage for a competitive arena. The entry of unique players like Crab Sports signals that the state embraces a diverse range of operators beyond the established giants.
Mississippi Sports Betting: Bridging Tradition and Modernity
Can you bet online? Yes
Mississippi entered the legal sports betting scene in 2018, welcoming both in-person and mobile wagering. However, the state’s mobile betting regulations come with limitations, permitting wagers only within the premises of a casino. This blend of traditional casino-based wagering and restricted mobile options reflects Mississippi’s unique approach to embracing modern trends while maintaining a connection with its casino heritage.
Montana Sports Betting: From Conception to Controlled Implementation
Can you bet online? No
Montana officially legalized sports betting in 2019, entrusting the state lottery with its oversight. While retail wagering is available in licensed bars and restaurants through kiosks and mobile devices, mobile betting remains confined to these establishments. Despite a desire to launch before the 2019 NFL season, Montana’s sports betting rollout took place in 2020, demonstrating the intricacies of transitioning from legislation to practical implementation.
Nevada Sports Betting: The Legacy of In-Person Betting and Ongoing Mobile Quest
Can you bet online? Yes
Nevada, renowned as the gold standard for in-person betting, has been navigating the shift towards mobile wagering. The state’s requirement for bettors to register in person at casinos before accessing online platforms reflects the ongoing journey of aligning traditional practices with modern convenience. Despite its iconic status, Nevada continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of betting preferences.
New Hampshire Sports Betting: Rapid Evolution and Dominance of Industry Players
Can you bet online? Yes
New Hampshire’s sports betting evolution has been characterized by swift progress and dominance by key industry players. Following the enactment of a sports betting bill in 2019, mobile wagering swiftly launched, with DraftKings leading the way. The state’s unique partnership with DraftKings and the presence of retail sports betting options underline New Hampshire’s rapid rise as a prominent sports betting market.
New Mexico Sports Betting: Tribal Influence and Retail Focal Points
Can you bet online? No
Tribal casinos in New Mexico have embraced retail sportsbooks, contributing to the state’s sports betting landscape. While mobile betting is not available, the prevalence of in-person wagering at tribal casinos underscores the role of tribal entities in shaping the state’s betting offerings.
Oregon Sports Betting: An Evolutionary Path from Challenges to Collaborations
Can you bet online? Yes
Oregon’s journey into legal sports betting witnessed an evolving narrative. The state introduced a lottery-run mobile betting app in 2020, which faced criticism. In 2022, a significant shift occurred as Oregon opted to partner with DraftKings, introducing a prominent mobile option. Despite limitations on college sports wagering, the partnership with DraftKings has extended Oregonians’ access to diverse sports betting experiences.
Rhode Island Sports Betting: An Early Entrant with Lottery Involvement
Can you bet online? Yes
Rhode Island has been at the forefront of legal sports betting since 2018, allowing both online and in-person wagering. A unique feature of Rhode Island’s betting landscape is its acceptance of bettors as young as 18, setting it apart from other states. The state runs its mobile betting product through the lottery, presenting an interesting model where the lottery becomes a conduit for sports wagering.
Alabama Sports Betting: A Pensive Stance and Hurdles Ahead
Can you bet online? No
While Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has not staunchly opposed legalized sports betting, tangible progress remains distant. The state’s legislative and public approval requirements add layers of complexity, implying that significant developments in legal sports betting are not imminent in Alabama.
Alaska Sports Betting: A Distant Prospect
Can you bet online? No
In the landscape of sports gambling, Alaska remains an outlier with no tangible progress towards legalization. The absence of legal sports betting echoes the state’s minimal involvement in the broader gambling arena.
California Sports Betting: A Shifting Landscape of Initiatives
Can you bet online? No
California’s journey into legal sports betting has encountered both hope and challenges. In 2022, a voter-rejected initiative sought to legalize mobile wagering, but the rejection signaled a setback for proponents. While mobile sports betting may not materialize soon, the debate continues, making the prospects for legal sports betting in California a subject of ongoing scrutiny.
District of Columbia Sports Betting: Government-Run Mobile and Evolving Choices
Can you bet online? Yes
The District of Columbia embraced sports betting with the approval of a bill in 2018. The introduction of the GamBet government-run mobile sportsbook marked an early step. However, retail casinos at sports facilities like Nationals Park and CapitalOne Arena provided additional options. While the city-run app faced criticism, the evolving landscape of choices and consumer preferences underscores the dynamic nature of legal sports betting.
Florida Sports Betting: Tribal Influence and Legal Wrangling
Can you bet online? No
Florida’s sports betting scene revolves around the Seminole tribe’s control of legal gambling. An agreement granting the tribe exclusive access to mobile wagering through the Hard Rock Sportsbook app encountered opposition, leading to ongoing legal battles. The outcome of these legal challenges will determine the future of mobile sports betting options for Floridians.
Georgia Sports Betting: Constitutional Amendment and Optimism
Can you bet online? No
Georgia’s trajectory towards legalized sports betting involves potential constitutional amendments and public sentiment. Polls indicating voter support for legalized sports betting, alongside endorsements from major sports franchises, highlight a favorable environment. However, the absence of casino gaming and the legislative process introduce uncertainties, making the timeline for legalized wagering uncertain.
Hawaii Sports Betting: A State of No Gambling
Can you bet online? No
Hawaii remains one of the two states devoid of any form of gambling. The absence of a gambling infrastructure firmly establishes that sports betting is not a foreseeable prospect in the state.
Idaho Sports Betting: Upholding Restrictions
Can you bet online? No
Idaho’s laws currently lean against gambling activities, with the exception of horse racing. Notably, fantasy sports are also prohibited. Given these prevailing regulations, sports betting remains an unlikely prospect within the state.
Kansas Sports Betting: A Mobile Revolution
Can you bet online? Yes
Kansans are embracing the convenience of mobile sportsbooks, following the passage of legislation legalizing the activity in 2022. The juxtaposition with neighboring Missouri’s lack of legal sports betting adds an intriguing dimension. Tax revenue generated from sports betting contributes to attracting professional sports teams, offering an added incentive for the industry’s growth. In-person betting is also accessible at the state’s casinos.
Kentucky Sports Betting: On the Brink of Introduction
Can you bet online? Soon
Kentucky is on the brink of becoming the newest state to embrace legal sports betting. Legislative approval in 2023 paved the way for the state’s horse racing commission to oversee sports betting. The state’s horse tracks are set to apply for sportsbook licenses, with the first wagers anticipated in the upcoming fall of 2023.
Maine Sports Betting: A Tribal Twist
Can you bet online? Soon
Maine’s journey into legal sports betting took an unexpected turn in 2023, as only the state’s tribes became eligible for sports betting licenses. This surprised retail casino owners, altering their prospects of introducing mobile sportsbooks. Partnerships with the tribes are now crucial for any operator seeking to enter the Maine market, with mobile betting expected to launch in 2024.
Massachusetts Sports Betting: Competing Horizons
Can you bet online? Yes
Massachusetts boasts a competitive sports betting landscape, with three retail casinos and several online-only operators. The robust marketplace reflects the presence of established giants like DraftKings, headquartered in Boston. The competition among operators and the emergence of additional sportsbooks promise a dynamic betting environment for Massachusetts residents.
Minnesota Sports Betting: Tribal Influence Prevails
Can you bet online? No
In Minnesota, the interests of the state’s federally recognized tribes have played a pivotal role in hindering the expansion of gaming, including sports betting. The landscape remains uncertain, as the influence of these tribes has deterred legislators from enacting sports betting legislation.
Missouri Sports Betting: A Prolonged Debate
Can you bet online? No
Missouri’s legislative discussions surrounding sports betting have extended over multiple years without yielding substantial progress. Despite neighboring states allowing legal wagers, Missouri’s legislative landscape has yet to embrace sports betting, leaving residents awaiting potential developments in the 2024 legislative session.
Nebraska Sports Betting: Gradual Advancement
Can you bet online? No
Nebraska’s path to legal sports betting saw in-person wagering becoming legal. While the process was gradual, the first wager was made at the WarHorse Casino in Lincoln in July 2023. Expansion across other casinos and racetracks is anticipated, though the outlook for mobile wagering remains uncertain.
North Carolina Sports Betting: An Imminent Shift
Can you bet online? Soon
In-person wagering at tribal casinos has been legal in North Carolina since 2022, yet accessibility remains a challenge due to their distant locations. Surprisingly, the North Carolina legislature passed legislation legalizing statewide mobile betting during the twilight of the 2023 legislative session. Inspired, perhaps, by neighboring Virginia’s mobile wagering success, the move signifies a potential game-changer. The anticipation builds for the arrival of sportsbooks in fall 2023.
North Dakota Sports Betting: A Complex Canvas
Can you bet online? No
North Dakota’s brush with sports betting includes a rejected 2022 referendum bill by a single vote in 2021. While interest in legal sports betting is evident, voters may not have an opportunity to approve it until November 2024. Though several tribes offer in-person sports betting at their casinos, this proceeds without explicit legislative endorsement, reflecting the intricate shades of legality in the state.
Ohio Sports Betting: A Fast Start
Can you bet online? Yes
Ohio sprinted into the realm of legal sports betting on the first day of 2023. With its avid sports enthusiasts, the state rapidly climbed the ranks to become a top-5 sports betting revenue generator. Over a dozen sportsbook apps now cater to Ohioans, complemented by retail sportsbooks in casinos and horse racetracks across the state.
Oklahoma Sports Betting: Navigating Tribal Waters
Can you bet online? No
In Oklahoma, the tribal landscape plays a pivotal role. While legislative interest in sports betting has emerged, the presence of tribes adds complexity to the regulatory process. The involvement of tribes in decision-making could pose challenges, rendering the path to legalized sports betting intricate.
South Carolina Sports Betting: A Long Road Ahead
Can you bet online? No
Though past legislative attempts have surfaced in South Carolina, none have gained traction. The distant prospects of sports betting remain enshrouded in uncertainty, with the legislative journey uphill and fraught with challenges.
South Dakota Sports Betting: A Restricted Path
Can you bet online? No
Sports betting found a niche in South Dakota, legal exclusively within the city of Deadwood’s existing casinos. Despite this localized authorization, the lack of mobile betting limits the state’s potential for widespread sports wagering.
Texas Sports Betting: A Distant Horizon
Can you bet online? No
The limited legislative schedule of Texas makes each session crucial. While sports betting discussions have surfaced, the state’s prevailing anti-gambling sentiment hinders momentum. Unfortunately, the prospects of legal sports betting in Texas remain distant.
Utah Sports Betting: A Sealed Fate
Can you bet online? No
Utah’s stance on sports betting is clear: it will not materialize. In a state devoid of gambling of any kind, save for Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS), the prospect of legal sports betting remains out of reach.
Vermont Sports Betting: An Unexpected Turn
Vermont, a state unacquainted with casinos and traditionally wary of gambling, sprung a surprise by legalizing sports betting. This decision brings Vermont in line with its bordering states, each with legal wagering options. Anticipate the virtual launch of 2 to 6 online-only sportsbooks in early 2024, as the state refrains from permitting retail sportsbooks.
Washington Sports Betting: Tribal Territory Takes the Lead
In early 2020, Washington’s legislature, typically stringent on gambling laws, charted a new course. The bill legalizing sports betting in tribal casinos was passed by both the House and Senate. Governor Jay Inslee’s signature transformed Washington into the 21st state to legalize sports betting and the first in 2020. With mobile wagering confined to tribal casinos, a burgeoning market of over a dozen sportsbooks emerges, though in-state collegiate games remain off-limits.
Wisconsin Sports Betting: Constitutional Contemplations
The prospect of non-tribal sports betting in Wisconsin hinges on a constitutional change, mandating Senate passage, Assembly approval, and voter consent via a statewide referendum. Amidst this process, tribal casinos, which manage 26 establishments, present a wildcard factor. While mobile betting remains unavailable, several tribal casinos offer sportsbooks, underscoring the intricate interplay between tribal influence and regulatory evolution.