U.S. sports betting regulation progresses in numerous states

Connecticut is having another go at sports betting legislation with the introduction of S665 at the state legislature.

Backed by nine Democratic senators, the bill in its current form provides little information except to authorise waging on sporting events.

Claims of tribal compact and exclusivity violations from the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan tribes have stalled previous attempts with most recent discussions breaking down in 2018.

An opinion issued by Connecticut attorney general George Jepsen in April 2018, on the premise that PASPA was struck down said: “…, it is our opinion that if sports betting were to become lawful in Connecticut, the Tribes would not have an exclusive right under the existing Compacts and MOUs to offer it.

“The Compacts set out a list of authorized games. Mashantucket Procedures, § 3; Mohegan Compact, § 3. Sports betting is not listed as an authorized game. By contrast, for example, pari-mutuel betting on horse and dog racing and jai alai games are authorized games. Id. The exclusion of sports betting from the specific list of authorized games is compelling evidence that the Compacts do not presently authorize it.”

Sports betting is on the agenda in the State of Arizona too with the introduction of SB 1158 authored by Senator Sonny Borrelli and backed by Representatives Mark Finchem and Leo Biasiucci.

SB1158 authorises the 16 Federally recognised Tribes in Arizona to operate land-based sports betting at the 24 casinos situated within state lines.

Provisions enable Tribal operators to enter into agreements with non-tribal entities in terms of services and technologies and sets a minimum 6.75 percent adjusted gross revenue tax rate.

In Hawaii, pending introduction, the unexpected filing Wednesday of H1107 details the creation of the Hawaii Sports Wagering Corporation which would be responsible for the regulation and operation of sports wagering on an exclusive basis.

Following its passage, within 180 days, one vendor would be selected following a public Request for Proposal who would work on a total revenue share basis, the percentage of which is not detailed.

Other sports wagering bills in play include Washington DC, Michigan, Kansas, Kentucky and New Hampshire.