The legalization of sports betting is gaining momentum in the United States, but a few states are still in line to join the trend. As the economy continues to thrive and the popularity of sports increases, it's not surprising that more states will be signing legislation to allow sports betting in 2023.
In total, bettors have wagered more than $30 billion since the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018. (Yes, that's billion with a B!) The result gave each state the power to decide whether or not to offer legalized sports betting and how to regulate it.
As we continue into 2023, many more states will likely choose to jump on the bandwagon and legalize sports betting. Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, and Minnesota will probably be the next states to join this growing trend in the next few years.
A Journey to Legalize Sports Betting: From Idea to Implementation
Sports betting is becoming increasingly popular in the United States, with more and more states legalizing it each year. But how do states go about legalizing sports betting?
The process of legalizing sports betting varies from state to state. In some cases, a state may pass legislation that allows for sports betting, while in other cases, a ballot initiative or referendum may be held to decide whether or not to legalize it.
In either case, once the decision is made to legalize sports betting, the state must then create regulations that govern how it will be conducted. This includes deciding which types of bets can be placed, setting up taxation and licensing systems for operators, and establishing consumer protection measures.
Once these regulations are in place, operators can apply for licenses to offer sports betting services within the state. The application process typically involves background checks on the operator and their employees, as well as ensuring that they meet all of the necessary requirements set forth by the state’s gaming commission. Operators can begin offering their services within the state’s borders once approved.
With that in mind, let's look at which states are most — and least—likely to legalize sports betting in 2023.
States to Watch in 2023
2023 could be a groundbreaking year for the sports betting industry, as numerous conditions are set to join this quickly-growing trend. Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, and Minnesota all show storing potential for legal sports wagering before the end of 2023.
Georgia
After numerous attempts to pass a motion in 2022, the efforts crashed, leaving people frustrated. Nevertheless, there is still a sense of hope that a new motion has the potential to be brought up come 2023. This new motion could potentially revolutionize the sports industry, making sports betting legal in Georgia.
If this innovative movement goes through, Georgians would no longer have to travel for legal sports betting--they would be able to live out the fun and excitement such games bring them within the confinements of their home state! With more research and work invested into this possibility, 2023 may be drastically different than its predecessor in legalizing sports betting.
Florida
Sports betting in Florida has had a tumultuous journey. Initially, it seemed like a done deal, but the issue has hit roadblocks due to a legal dispute between the state and the Seminole Tribe. The dispute centers around an illegal agreement between the two parties that’s been the subject of fairly recent court proceedings.
Once the proceedings conclude, it will be up to the Florida legislature to decide on the future of sports betting in the state. If the legislature legalizes sports betting, it could become a reality for Floridians as soon as 2023.
North Carolina
North Carolina is also on board with legalizing sports betting shortly. The proposed bill would allow mobile and online sports betting and create a system to track activity to reduce problem gambling.
This bill is expected to make it through the state legislature in 2023, at which point North Carolina could join the ranks of other states with legal sports betting options. If the bill passes in 2023, sports betting will become a reality for North Carolina residents.
Minnesota
Finally, Minnesota is also considering legislation allowing sports betting within its borders. Minnesota legislators are debating legislation that could drastically shape how sports fans engage with their hobbies.
If the bill passes, it will permit the legal practice of sports betting within the state — something Minnesotans have never seen before. Residents of Minnesota are excited over the new possibility, as they can now place wagers on previously unavailable sporting events.
As part of this move, Golden Button, a preeminent platform for sports betting operators and customers, has fired up its engines for implementation in Minnesota upon Legislature approval. The potential revolutionizes entertainment outdoors of the traditional stadium experience and changes how players interact with their favorite teams and athletes.
Additional States Moving Towards Legalizing Sports Betting
Despite the potential benefits of legalizing sports betting, some states remain reluctant to do so. California and Missouri are among the states that remain resistant to legalizing sports betting anytime soon. With a lack of progress thus far in these states, it is unlikely that any changes will occur before 2023.
Missouri
Despite the wave of momentum in other states, Missouri has also been hesitant to move toward the legalization of sports betting. Missouri's lawmakers are wary of allowing sports betting, as they fear it could lead to an increase in problem gambling and a decrease in consumer protection.
With such strong reservations from legislators, it is unlikely that Missouri will legalize sports betting within the next two years.
California
Most folks expected California to legalize sports betting back in November of 2022. Surprisingly, people from California voted a resounding NO to sports wagering. This happened even after nearly $460 million in funding was raised to try to bring online gambling into the state.
At the moment, California allows gambling only at Native American casinos and at horse races. The state also has a lottery. There's no word as to when sports betting will be voted on again in California.
South Carolina
The move to legalize sports betting has picked up steam recently in South Carolina, with several politicians campaigning on the top in last year's election. Most notably, former Congressman Joe Cunningham campaigned for the state governor position promising legal sports betting and marijuana.
Despite Cunningham's narrow loss, the state appears on the verge of passing legislation that could allow sportsbooks to operate in South Carolina by 2024. We don't see SC as a betting state in 2023, but would not be shocked if they found a way to legalize in time for the start of the next NFL season.
Summing Up: The State of Sports Betting in 2023
The future of sports betting in the US is looking very bright. More states are legalizing sports betting every year, which makes it easier for fans to safely and securely place bets on their favorite teams and games. This could lead to increased engagement with the games, improved customer service from online sportsbooks and mobile applications, and emerging new technologies.
As more states continue to legalize sports betting, all sports fans and bettors should stay informed on the latest developments in their state and the industry.
