Where is Sports Betting Legal? A Guide to States That Allow Wagering
Sports betting has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more states legalizing it. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer to the world of sports gambling, it’s important to know which states allow sports betting and what the regulations are in each state. This guide is intended to help you navigate the different laws and regulations in the United States regarding sports betting and to provide you with a complete overview of the states where sports betting is currently legal.
The legalization of sports betting in the United States has been a rapidly evolving issue, and it has been driven by changing attitudes towards gambling and the potential revenue benefits for states. In 2018, the Supreme Court struck down a federal law that had prohibited sports betting in most states, which opened the doors for states to legalize and regulate sports gambling on their own terms. Since then, many states have taken advantage of this ruling and have legalized sports betting to varying degrees.
The regulations and rules around sports betting can be complex, with each state setting its own guidelines for how betting can be done and what types of bets are allowed. Some states only allow sports betting at casinos or through mobile apps, while others have more liberal regulations and allow sports betting at retail locations like bars and restaurants. This guide will provide you with a complete overview of each state’s individual laws and regulations, so you can make informed decisions about where and when to place your sports bets.
New Jersey
New Jersey was the second state to legalize sports betting after the Supreme Court ruled to lift the federal ban on sports betting outside of Nevada in 2018. In June of that year, Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill allowing sports betting at Atlantic City casinos, horse racing tracks, and online. This move has made New Jersey a significant player in the sports betting industry.Several operators have launched mobile sports betting platforms, including FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM. In May 2021, New Jersey sportsbooks took a record $814 million in bets, surpassing the previous record of $803 million set during the Super Bowl in February 2021.
In-person sports betting is also available in New Jersey, with eight casinos offering sportsbooks. The Borgata, Ocean Casino Resort, and Hard Rock Atlantic City are among the casinos with popular sports betting lounges.
New Jersey’s success in sports betting has fueled neighboring states to also legalize sports betting. Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York have all followed New Jersey’s lead and legalized sports betting in some form. The competitive nature of the sports betting industry in the northeast has made it an exciting time for sports fans in the region.
New York
New York is one of the states where sports betting is legal. In 2013, the state authorized four commercial casinos to operate sportsbooks if the federal ban on sports betting got lifted. These casinos launched sports betting operations in July 2019 after the Supreme Court overturned the ban LeoVegas.
Current New York law limits sports betting to in-person wagers at the four upstate casinos: Tioga Downs, Rivers Casino & Resort, del Lago Resort & Casino, and Resorts World Catskills. However, efforts to expand sports betting to online platforms are underway, with lawmakers pushing for legislation that would allow online sports betting in the state.
New York also has a professional sports landscape that could contribute to significant sports betting activity. The state hosts several major sports teams, including the New York Yankees, New York Mets, New York Giants, New York Jets, New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, and Buffalo Bills.
Despite this, New York sports betting has been slow to gain steam. In 2020, the state legislature introduced several bills to expand sports betting, but none of them made it to the governor's desk. It remains to be seen how fast New York will move to expand its sports betting industry in the coming years.
Pennsylvania Sports Betting: A Growing Industry
The Legalization of Sports Betting in Pennsylvania
In 2017, Pennsylvania signed into law a bill legalizing sports betting in the state. The goal of the bill was to not only increase revenues for the state, but also to provide a safe and regulated environment for sports betting enthusiasts. This was a major shift in policy, as previously sports betting was only legal in Nevada.Where to Bet in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has a variety of options for sports betting enthusiasts, including both retail and online sportsbooks. Some of the most popular sportsbooks in the state include DraftKings Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook, and BetRivers. These sportsbooks offer a wide range of betting options, including in-play betting and the ability to bet on a variety of different sports.The Future of Sports Betting in Pennsylvania
The legalization of sports betting in Pennsylvania has already had a major impact on the state's economy, with millions of dollars in revenue being generated by the industry. As more states continue to legalize sports betting, it's expected that the industry will continue to grow in Pennsylvania. In the future, we can expect to see even more sportsbooks opening up and more betting options becoming available to sports betting enthusiasts in the state.Delaware
Delaware was the first state to legalize sports betting outside of Nevada, following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn PASPA in 2018. The state offered single-game betting at its three casinos immediately, making it one of the first states to do so.
Delaware's sports betting legislation allows for online and mobile betting, but the initial version of the law only permitted in-person betting. However, online and mobile sports betting were officially launched in 2019. The state also allows for betting on all professional and collegiate sports, except for games that involve Delaware-based teams.
Delaware's sports betting market has been steadily growing, with over $1 billion in total wagers placed since the launch of sports betting in 2018. The state has seen increased revenue from sports betting taxes and has even introduced legislation to allow for sports betting at non-casino venues such as bars and restaurants.
- Important information:
- Legalized sports betting: June 5, 2018
- Allowed in-person betting?: Yes
- Allowed online/mobile betting?: Yes
- Minimum age to bet: 21
Rhode Island: A State for Sports Betting Fans
Overview
Rhode Island was one of the first states to legalize sports betting after the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down a federal ban on it in 2018. The state allows both in-person and online betting options for its residents and visitors.
In-person Sports Betting
Rhode Island has two land-based casinos that offer sports betting services - the Twin River Casino Hotel in Lincoln and the Tiverton Casino Hotel in Tiverton. The former was the first casino in the state to launch sports betting in November 2018, and the latter followed suit a year later.
Online Sports Betting
Rhode Island’s online sports betting platform, called the Sportsbook Rhode Island, is run by the state lottery and powered by William Hill. The platform allows users to place bets on a variety of sports events from anywhere within the state’s borders.
Legal Framework
Sports betting was legalized in Rhode Island in June 2018, just a month after the landmark Supreme Court ruling. The state’s legislature passed a bill that allowed sports betting at land-based casinos and authorized the creation of an online platform.
Rhode Island follows a similar tax framework to other states that have legalized sports betting. The state takes a 51% cut of the revenue generated from in-person sports betting and a 51% cut from online sports betting.
Future of Sports Betting in Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s sports betting market is still in its early stages, and it remains to be seen how much revenue it will generate. However, the state’s proximity to other states without sports betting may attract more bettors from outside its borders.
Rhode Island lawmakers have also proposed expanding sports betting to include mobile apps and kiosks located outside the two existing casinos. These proposals are currently under review by the state legislature.
Mississippi
Introduction
Mississippi is one of the states in the southern region of the United States that has legalized sports betting. It is home to several top-rated casinos that offer sports betting services.
History of Sports Betting in Mississippi
In August 2018, Mississippi became the third state in the US to offer legal sports betting after the US Supreme Court lifted the federal ban on sports betting in May 2018. The Mississippi Gaming Commission quickly set regulations and rules governing sports betting, and several casinos started offering sports betting services by the end of August.
Availability of Sports Betting in Mississippi
Sports betting is available both in-person and online in Mississippi. The state allows mobile or online betting within casinos’ premises and through mobile apps. However, Mississippi requires that bettors register on-site before they can place bets through online sportsbooks.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Mississippi
Football, basketball, baseball, and horse racing are the most popular sports to bet on in Mississippi. Bettors can place bets on games of the National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA), Major League Baseball (MLB), and horse races taking place at several racetracks in Mississippi.
Conclusion
Mississippi has quickly become one of the most popular sports betting destinations in the US. It has an extensive range of betting options and some of the most modern casinos in the country. Thus, it provides an incredible opportunity for sports bettors to enjoy sports betting legally and responsibly.
West Virginia
State Overview
West Virginia is one of the states that have legalized sports betting. The state regulated sports betting in 2018 after the Supreme Court declared it was illegal, which paved the way for states to legalize it if they so wished. West Virginia has five land-based casinos that offer sports betting, which means residents have a variety of options to choose from.Online Sports Betting
Online sports betting in West Virginia is legal, and the platform to bet on sports is called the West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act. This platform allows bettors to place bets on an array of games, including football, basketball, baseball, boxing, and more.Sports Teams
West Virginia has a rich sports culture with many professional and college teams that represent the state on a national level. The state does not have any professional teams to its name, but the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens have a significant fan base in the area. The West Virginia Mountaineers, a college football team, also has a massive following and is deeply rooted in the state's history.Sports Betting Tips
Sports betting is a form of entertainment, and bettors should always gamble responsibly. Before placing a bet, it's essential to do some research and know the team's strengths and weaknesses. Choosing a reputable sportsbook can also impact the outcome of a bet, ensuring that you always receive your winnings. Lastly, creating and sticking to a budget can make all the difference in ensuring that sports betting remains a fun and enjoyable experience.Conclusion
Sports betting is legal in West Virginia, and residents have multiple options to place their bets. The state's enthusiastic sports culture and the availability of betting on various online platforms have ensured that sports betting will continue to thrive in West Virginia for the foreseeable future.New Mexico: A State with Legalized Sports Betting
New Mexico was one of the first states to legalize sports betting in 2018, even before the Supreme Court ruling that allowed states to choose if they wanted to legalize sports betting or not. The state allowed their tribal casinos to offer sports betting under existing gaming compacts. Currently, eight of the state's tribal casinos offer sports betting.
In order to place bets in New Mexico, bettors must be physically present at one of the tribal casinos that offers sports betting. Additionally, online and mobile sports betting is not allowed in the state at this time.
One unique aspect of sports betting in New Mexico is that the state does not have any specific legislation addressing sports betting. Rather, the tribal casinos are relying on the existing gaming compacts with the state to offer sports betting. This has led to some legal challenges, but as of now, sports betting remains legal and operational in New Mexico.
- Eight tribal casinos in New Mexico offer sports betting.
- Bettors must be physically present at a casino to place bets.
- There is no specific legislation addressing sports betting in New Mexico.
Iowa: A State with Legalized Sports Betting
Iowa has legalized sports betting in May 2019, allowing both in-person and online betting within the state. This move came following the Supreme Court decision to repeal the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA), which prohibited sports betting on a federal level.
To participate in sports betting, Iowans must be at least 21 years old and physically present within state lines. In-person sports betting is available at casinos, licensed bars, and online sportsbooks.
Iowa Gambling Commission regulates sports betting in the state and works in close cooperation with the licensees to ensure a safe and fair environment for all participants. The commission has also established a voluntary self-exclusion program for those who may need help with controlling their gambling habits.
- The legal types of sports betting in Iowa include:
- Spread betting
- Moneyline betting
- Over/Under betting
- Proposition betting
In conclusion, Iowa is among many states who have recently legalized sports betting in light of the Supreme Court decision regarding PASPA. Sports enthusiasts in Iowa can enjoy a variety of betting options both in-person and online, under the regulations set by the Iowa Gambling Commission.
| Sportsbook | Mobile App |
|---|---|
| DraftKings Sportsbook | Yes |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | Yes |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | Yes |
| PointsBet Sportsbook | Yes |
Oregon: A State at the Forefront of Sports Betting Legalization
Sports Betting in Oregon
Oregon is a state that has embraced sports betting with open arms. The state legalized sports betting in August 2019, after the US Supreme Court struck down a law prohibiting sports betting in states outside of Nevada. As a result, Oregon became one of the first states to legalize sports betting after the landmark Supreme Court ruling.Online Sports Betting in Oregon One unique aspect of sports betting in Oregon is that it is available to residents and visitors both online and in person. The state launched a mobile sports betting app in October 2019, making it one of the few US states to offer online sports betting. This option has proven to be incredibly popular, with over 80% of all sports bets placed in the state being made through the app.
- Benefits of online sports betting:
- Convenience for users
- Increased revenue for the state
- Creates jobs in the tech industry
- Boosts tourism to the state due to increased accessibility
Sports Teams in Oregon Oregon has a rich sporting culture, with a number of sports teams based in the state. The most notable of these teams is the Portland Trail Blazers, one of the most popular basketball teams in the NBA. The state also has a Major League Soccer team, the Portland Timbers, and a National Women’s Soccer League team, the Portland Thorns FC.
- Fun facts about sports in Oregon:
- The Nike company was founded in Oregon and has contributed heavily to the state's sports culture
- Oregon is home to the Prefontaine Classic, an annual track and field meet named after local legend Steve Prefontaine
- The state has hosted the Men's and Women's NCAA Basketball tournaments multiple times
- Portland is known for its unique and passionate fan culture, earning a reputation as one of the best sports cities in America
| City | Team | Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Portland | Portland Trail Blazers | Basketball |
| Portland | Portland Timbers | Soccer |
| Portland | Portland Thorns FC | Women's Soccer |
| Eugene | Oregon Ducks | College Football |
| Corvallis | Oregon State Beavers | College Football |
With its progressive approach to sports betting and thriving sports culture, Oregon is a must-visit destination for sports fans from all over the world.
Indiana: One of the Leaders in Legalized Sports Betting
Overview
Indiana is one of the few states in the USA that has fully embraced sports betting, having legalized it in September 2019. Since then, sports betting has become a popular pastime for many Indiana residents, with a wide range of sportsbooks operating in the state. Indiana has established itself as a leader in the sports betting industry, setting an example for other states to follow.
Regulation
The Indiana Gaming Commission is responsible for regulating sports betting in the state. Any operator that wants to offer sports betting services in Indiana must apply for a license from the commission and comply with its rules and regulations. Among other things, the commission imposes strict requirements on operators to ensure the integrity of sports betting and to protect consumers from fraud and abuse.
Operators
There are currently a dozen or so operators offering sports betting services in Indiana. These include big names like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM, as well as smaller local operators like PointsBet and BetRivers. Each operator offers its own unique betting experience, with different odds, markets, and promotions.
Taxes and Revenue
Indiana imposes a tax rate of 9.5% on sports betting revenue, which is relatively low compared to other states. This has helped to attract operators to the state and boost revenue. In the first year of legal sports betting in Indiana, the state generated more than $400 million in total handle and nearly $40 million in tax revenue.
Conclusion
Indiana’s success in legalized sports betting is a testament to the benefits of regulating and taxing this industry. By creating a safe and legal environment for sports betting, Indiana has been able to generate significant revenue and create jobs. As other states consider legalizing sports betting, they would do well to look to Indiana as a model for their own regulatory frameworks.
New Hampshire: A state with legal sports betting
The current legal status of sports betting in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is one of the twenty-one US states where sports betting is legal as of the time of writing. The state legalized sports betting in 2019, and it has been running legally since December 2019. The state’s Department of Safety oversees the regulation of sports betting in New Hampshire, and the New Hampshire Lottery is responsible for administering and regulating it.
The types of sports betting available in New Hampshire
The only form of sports betting that is currently legal and regulated in New Hampshire is mobile betting. It is only open to those who live or work in the state, and bettors must be at least 18 years old. The mobile betting app is currently available only on iOS and Android devices, and it can be downloaded through the New Hampshire Lottery website.
The benefits of sports betting on New Hampshire's economy
The legalization of sports betting in New Hampshire brought a significant revenue boost to the state. A significant portion of the revenue from sports betting in New Hampshire goes toward funding education in the state. Sports betting in New Hampshire has also created jobs in the industry, generating employment opportunities for residents, and increased tourism to the state.
Other forms of gambling legalized in New Hampshire
Apart from sports betting, New Hampshire has also legalized other forms of gambling, including lottery, charitable gambling, and casino and poker gambling. The state has many charitable gambling options, and its racetrack has the only casino in the state. However, casino and poker gambling in New Hampshire are limited compared to other states, and it is strictly monitored by the state authorities.
Illinois: The State with a Progressive Approach to Sports Betting
Illinois is one of the most recent states to legalize sports betting, having done so in March of 2020. The Prairie State has taken a progressive approach to sports betting, allowing both in-person and online betting. In-person betting is available at casinos, racetracks, and sports venues, while online betting is accessible through mobile apps and websites.
The Illinois Gaming Board regulates all sports betting activities, ensuring the safety and integrity of the industry. Operators must be licensed and follow strict regulations to operate. Additionally, the state has implemented responsible gambling measures, including self-exclusion and deposit limits, to prevent problem gambling.
Illinois has also embraced the popularity of daily fantasy sports (DFS), legalizing it in 2019. DFS operators must be licensed and follow regulations put forth by the state. The legalization of DFS paved the way for sports betting and showed the state's willingness to adapt to changing gambling trends.
- Population: Over 12 million
- Legalized sports betting: Yes (in-person and online)
- Regulator: Illinois Gaming Board
- Minimum age to bet: 21
Overall, Illinois is a state with a progressive approach to sports betting and gambling in general. With the legalization of sports betting and DFS, the state has shown its willingness to embrace new trends and adapt to changing behaviors. As the industry continues to grow, Illinois is poised to be a significant player in the sports betting market.
Colorado: A Hub for Sports Betting Enthusiasts
If you are in Colorado, you have the opportunity to enjoy sports betting legally in your state. In May 2020, the state launched legal sports betting, making it the 18th state to do so in the United States. As a result, sports enthusiasts in Colorado can now engage in legal sports betting activities, including mobile and online betting.
The Colorado Division of Gaming oversees the regulation of sports betting in the state. The division collaborates with sportsbooks to ensure compliance with the state's sports betting laws and regulations. Operators must obtain a license from the Division to operate legally in Colorado.
The sports betting experience in Colorado is exceptional with several sportsbooks available to residents. Some of the biggest names in the industry, such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM, operate legal sportsbooks in the state. This availability creates an environment that promotes healthy competition for the best odds.
- Residents can place bets on various sports, including football, basketball, baseball, soccer, MMA, and more.
- Sports enthusiasts can also bet on events like Super Bowl, NCAA March Madness, and the Olympics.
The state also has several casinos where you can enjoy sports betting. Plus, online sports betting has provided an avenue for residents to engage in legal betting from the comfort of their homes.
Colorado has implemented responsible gaming regulations that help protect players and promote responsible gambling practices. Players can set betting limits to prevent overspending and opt-out at any time. Sportsbooks in Colorado are banned from targeting minors, promoting problem gambling, and operating outside the state's legal framework.
Overall, Colorado has become a hub for sports betting enthusiasts, and its regulated sports betting environment guarantees a safe, secure, and fair gaming experience.
Tennessee: A State with Limited Sports Betting Options
Tennessee is one of the states where sports betting is legal, but the options are limited. In 2019, Tennessee passed a bill to legalize sports betting but with a unique approach. Sports betting in Tennessee is regulated by the state lottery, and there are no physical sportsbooks. All betting is done online and through mobile apps.
To have access to sports betting in Tennessee, residents must be at least 21 years old and physically located within the state's borders. The state only allows licensed online sports betting operators to offer their services to the public legally, and there are currently four licensed operators: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Tennessee Action 24/7.
However, it's important to note that Tennessee imposes strict regulations on sports betting operators. One of the most significant regulations is that the state requires a hold or payout percentage of at least 10% for sports betting operators. This means that Tennesseans who bet on sports end up paying a higher rate in taxes and fees as compared to other states with retail sportsbooks.
The limited options for sports betting in Tennessee may be perceived as a disadvantage by some. However, others appreciate the convenience and accessibility of placing their bets through their mobile devices or online platforms. As of March 2021, the Tennessee Education Lottery is considering revisions to the state's current sports betting regulations, which could open up more options for residents in the future.
Michigan and Sports Betting: A Winning Combination
Sports Betting Legalization in Michigan
Michigan joined the growing number of states legalizing sports betting in December 2019 when Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the Lawful Sports Betting Act. The act allowed for both online and in-person sports betting at licensed casinos and tribal gaming facilities in Michigan. The Michigan Gaming Control Board was tasked with creating rules and regulations for sports betting operations in the state.
What Sports Bettors Can Expect in Michigan
Michigan sports bettors can wager on a variety of sports at both physical and online sportsbooks. These sportsbooks must be licensed and regulated by the Michigan Gaming Control Board. Sports bettors can place wagers on professional and college sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and more.
In addition to traditional point spread bets, Michigan sports bettors can also place proposition bets, futures bets, and parlays. They can also take advantage of promotions and bonuses offered by sportsbooks.
The Future of Sports Betting in Michigan
Michigan’s sports betting industry continues to grow and evolve. As more sportsbooks enter the market, competition may lead to better odds and promotions for sports bettors. In addition, the state legislature is currently considering bills that would legalize online poker and casino gaming in Michigan, which could further expand the state’s gaming options.
With its vibrant sports culture and enthusiastic fanbase, Michigan is poised to be a major player in the expanding world of sports betting.