Wyoming sports betting is a few final steps away from reality.
Wyoming HB 133 made its way through the Senate, receiving a 24-5-1 approval vote on Monday.
On Tuesday, the House concurred and accepted the small amendments made by the Senate, 36-20-4. The bill now heads to Gov. Mark Gordon for a signature.
A target launch date of September 1 was agreed to by Wyoming Gaming Commission Director Charles Moore in a committee hearing.
Surprising journey to approval in Wyoming
Earlier this month, the House initially voted against the bill.
A bill co-sponsor, Rep. Landon Brown, then asked for a reconsideration vote while assuring any questions would be cleared up. It passed, 32-28.
The bill then sailed through the Senate Appropriations Committee and faced little opposition in the full Senate. Small amendments were made to provide consistency through gaming license applicants as the state opens up its gaming regulations.
Wyoming sports betting all online
HB 133 legalizes online sports betting in Wyoming.
Bettors in the state will have access to at least five sportsbook operators. An operator must be active in three other states to qualify for application.
DraftKings likely will be among the first operators to apply, as director of legal and governmental affairs Chris Cipolla was among those testifying in support of the bill during committee hearings.
Other national operators with significant market share in other states include:
- BetMGM
- FanDuel
- Barstool Sportsbook
- PointsBet
- theScore
Prospective take from Wyoming sports betting
The Wyoming Gaming Commission estimates the sports betting market can reach $449 million annually.
The state will collect a 10% tax on gaming revenues.
An initial five-year permit will cost $100,000 for operators, with a $50,000 renewal fee.
Keeping dollars within its borders
Proponents of the bill cited Colorado taking tax dollars from the state with its legal sports betting market. Colorado reported a $326.9 million handle in January.
South Dakota recently legalized sports wagering in the city of Deadwood.
In Montana, Intralot operates through the Montana Lottery.