As 2024 rolls into 2025, there will likely be plenty of legislative discussion about sports betting across the US.
The US sports betting map could see a few more states legalize in 2025, but other markets will discuss other matters related to the industry, like tax rates, advertising and college prop bets.
LSR dives in to set the stage for what should be a busy legislative season. Many bills have been introduced already, but more are likely to pop up nationwide as lawmakers look to better control and understand the growing industry.
Minnesota ready for another run
After a plan reportedly fell just short in 2024, stakeholders are gearing up for another effort in Minnesota. Unlike the previous session, however, the legislature’s chambers are now split between the Republican and Democratic-Farmer-Labor parties.
It remains to be seen whether the tribes and the horse racing tracks are on the same page, which could keep proponents from across the aisle apart. Likewise, there are strong anti-gambling politicians on both sides, which could mount too strong of an opposition.
However, it does appear some opponents see sportsbooks as inevitable and are ready to negotiate, like Sen. John Marty, a DFL member who submitted a bill to legalize the industry with strong responsible gambling components.
Georgia sports betting coming?
Earlier this month, Gov. Brian Kemp reiterated his neutral stance on Georgia sports betting. He did, however, note the benefits of a legalized industry.
Peach State lawmakers have come close to legalizing sports betting the past few sessions. However, there is a key disagreement on how it can be done. Some believe it requires a constitutional amendment, while others think it can be slotted under the Georgia Lottery.
Politicians are already discussing sports betting ahead of the session. However, several senators have told the media that any effort will need to start in the House.
South Carolina bill on its way
Rep. Chris Murphy filed an SC sports betting bill earlier this month.
The bill has bipartisan sponsors and would create eight licenses.
It faces strong opposition to gambling, however, including Gov. Henry McMaster.
Eyes on Texas sports betting
Lawmakers have already filed several bills to legalize gambling, including Texas sports betting.
Casinos, sportsbook companies and pro sports teams are working hard to lobby lawmakers after a 2023 bill passed the House. The Senate remains a tough task, though, as Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is staunchly anti-gambling and leads the chamber.
Still, the entire industry will be focused on Texas, as a report suggests it could be the most lucrative US market.
Alabama sports betting push
Earlier this year, a comprehensive gambling package passed the House in Alabama, one of just five states without a lottery. It fell short in the Senate after a conference committee.
House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels told 1819 News this month that the issue will come up again, but the Senate will need to lead it.
The powerful Poarch Creek Indians have hired the lobbying firm Fine Geddie in hopes of gaining a piece of the gambling pie.
Louisiana tax rate
This fall during a special session, Louisiana Rep. Roger Wilder presented a bill to a House committee that would raise sports betting taxes to 51% from 15%. Wilder deferred the bill, opting to take a longer look into the issue after hearing the concerns of various industry stakeholders.
In the 2025 session, the issue certainly could rear its head again.
Louisiana lawmakers could also continue their online casino discussion.
Michigan tax rate hike, too?
Some Michigan lawmakers will also look to raise gambling taxes in 2025.
The bills, one that would raise the sports betting tax by 0.1% and another that would increase the online casino tax by 1%, are likely to be conversation starters.
Sports Betting Alliance members sent out emails to customers asking to help persuade legislators not to raise taxes.
NJ tinkering with rules
A bill was filed in New Jersey that would revise the penalty for underage gambling to be a civil penalty. The bill also would earmark the fines from the penalty to be used for gambling addiction treatment.
There is also a bill that would prohibit college prop bets.
Federal sports betting bills
Sports betting could also be a popular topic in Congress.
Earlier this month, the US Senate Committee on the Judiciary held an initial hearing looking into the industry. Committee Chair Sen. Dick Durbin said it is just the beginning of the discussions.
Meanwhile, a pair of bills in the House and Senate aim to ban election betting.
