You’ve probably heard that a majority of states have legalized sports betting. In June of last year, Delaware became the first post-PASPA state to legalize full-fledged sports betting. What you may not know is that the same legislation also makes Daily fantasy sports legal in at least 40 states. So, which of these states will soon follow suit? Read on to find out! Regardless of your location, there are some basic facts about sports betting that you should know.
Maryland legalized sports betting in November 2020
There are a few reasons why Maryland could become one of the first states to legalize sports betting. While the state has a 21-year-old gambling age, the legislation is a step in the right direction. It’s unclear whether the state will allow sports betting in casinos or on mobile devices. But one thing is clear: Maryland lawmakers are serious about legalizing sports betting. Legislators didn’t want the state to fall behind its neighbors. So they worked with Redskins owner Daniel Snyder to come up with a bill. The bill passed the Senate unanimously in March, but the House omitted certain details regarding the operation of the sports betting industry. The final bill was approved by the House despite the attorney general’s opinion that sports betting in Maryland must first be approved by the voters.
Ohio legalized sports betting in June 2018
SB 176 seeks to create a regulated sports gaming market in Ohio, similar to the legal structure for alcoholic beverages and medical marijuana. The bill allows any approved wagering system, including sports betting, to operate in the state, and would also allow Esports wagering. A sports gaming license would be required. The bill has not yet been signed into law, but a vote is expected in the fall.
Delaware became first post-PASPA state to allow full-fledged legal sports betting
On May 14, the Supreme Court struck down PASPA, the federal law that prohibited most sports betting, and Delaware became the first state outside of Nevada to allow sports wagering. The state has three legal sports book locations and sports betting will begin in June. Until then, the state has only allowed sports wagering at physical casinos. However, that will soon change. In June 2019, sports betting will be legal throughout Delaware.
Daily fantasy sports is legal in at least 40 states
While many states ban daily fantasy sports, others consider them legal. In Georgia, the Attorney General’s Office has sent a letter warning DFS operators that the state’s laws prohibit the practice. Meanwhile, the Attorney General of Hawaii, Doug Chin, concluded that DFS contests constituted illegal gambling, and the Honolulu prosecuting attorney has instructed leading DFS providers to cease operating in his state. Meanwhile, North Dakota has no DFS legislation pending in its legislature.
Oregon legalized sports betting in July 2018
In July, the state of Oregon became the eighth state to legalize sports betting. This is a big step for the state and could influence other states to follow suit. This new legislation would allow 11 entities to apply for an on-premise sports betting license. Those entities include Hollywood Casino in Bangor, Oxford Casino, Scarborough Downs racetrack, and four off-track betting locations in Waterville, Lewiston, and Brunswick. The bill also allows four Native American tribes to operate sportsbooks.