Despite recently hitting a snag, Missouri sports betting is still pushing forward for a launch as soon as possible.
The Missouri Gaming Commission announced on its website this week that it intends to open up the MO sports betting application period on May 15. According to the constitutional amendment approved at the polls in November, sportsbooks must launch by Dec. 1.
Earlier this year, Secretary of State Denny Hoskins derailed the launch when he denied the emergency rules submitted by the MGC.
Getting Missouri sports betting off the ground
With emergency rules off the table, the licensing rules go into effect Aug. 30.
Getting the applications out early will help the MGC “ensure that the commission has time to properly review applications before decisions are made and temporary licenses are issued.”
Multiple other states have met similar timelines with their launches.
Delayed timeline
Hoskins, who has played the foe role often in the Missouri sports betting story, said sports betting does not require emergency rules.
Missouri laws says they can be used if there is “immediate danger to public health, safety, or welfare.” Sports betting also does not “preserve a compelling governmental interest that requires an early effective date.”
In November, voters narrowly approved the constitutional amendment with 50.05% of the vote in favor of sports betting.
Missouri framework
Missouri’s six professional sports teams and the state’s 13 riverboat casinos can all partner with an online sportsbook operator. They can also operate in-person sportsbooks.
The MGC can also award two untethered sportsbook licenses to national operators.
The Show-Me State will tax sports betting revenue at 10%.
