Since 2018, sports betting in the United States has changed a lot. Now, about 40 states allow sports betting in some way. This guide will show you where you can bet on sports across the country. It will also explain the laws about sports gambling in each state.
Many states have jumped on the sports betting bandwagon. Over 20 states now let you bet on sports using your phone or online. But, not all states are the same. Some only allow betting in stores, while others let you bet online.
Even though more states are legalizing sports betting, some like California and Texas haven’t yet. The debate and laws are still changing. So, the places where you can bet on sports in the USA are always shifting. This is creating a new era in sports and entertainment in America.
To navigate this evolving landscape and find out the best ways to place your bets, keep reading to discover how each state’s regulations impact your betting options.
The Evolution of Sports Betting Legislation in the USA
The history of sports betting in the United States has seen big changes. The journey from strict rules to legal sports betting has included key moments in law.
The Supreme Court made a big move in 2018. It ruled against the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). This opened the door for states to make their own sports betting laws.
After the Supreme Court’s decision, states started making their own rules fast. This led to a big increase in legal sports betting options. Now, many states offer both in-person and online betting, meeting the growing demand for legal sports betting sites.
States quickly started legalizing sports betting after 2018. Here’s a look at some of the early ones:
Year | States Legalizing Sports Betting |
---|---|
2018 | Delaware, New Jersey, Mississippi, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island |
2019 | New York, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, Oregon, New Hampshire |
2020 | Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, Montana, Virginia, Washington |
The fast growth shows a shift in how Americans view sports betting. As more states allow regulated sports betting sites, the industry is growing. It offers new chances for both operators and bettors.
States With Fully Legalized Sports Betting
The sports betting landscape in the USA has undergone significant changes since 2018. Today, 38 states and Washington D.C. permit sports betting in some form. Among these, 29 states allow both online and mobile betting, offering bettors a variety of options.
States such as Arizona, Colorado, and New Jersey have fully embraced sports betting, providing both in-person and online sportsbooks. This has made the market highly competitive, with platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel widely available.
For example, Arizona rapidly became one of the top ten states for betting in March 2022, while Colorado reported a betting handle exceeding $200 million in September 2020. New Jersey, a leader in the industry, boasts an impressive $51.7 billion handle.
Despite this growth, some states have limited options. North Carolina, New Mexico, North Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin restrict sports betting to tribal casinos. Additionally, eight states, including California and Texas, have yet to legalize sports betting.
Where Is Sports Betting Legal: Online and Retail Options
Sports betting in the USA varies by state, with different options available for online and retail betting.
States With Both Online and Retail Betting
States like Arizona, Colorado, and New Jersey offer both online and retail sports betting. Arizona features 26 retail locations and a substantial $17.1 billion handle. Colorado has 18 retail spots with an $18.4 billion handle, while New Jersey leads with a significant $51.7 billion handle.
States With Retail-Only Betting
Some states, such as Delaware, Mississippi, and New Mexico, offer only retail sports betting. Delaware, for instance, started legal sports betting in June 2018 and has three retail locations.
States With Online-Only Betting
Tennessee and Wyoming are among the states that allow only online sports betting, enabling bets from anywhere within the state.
Big names like BetMGM and Caesars Sportsbook are prominent in the online betting states, offering extensive betting options.
Major Players in the US Sports Betting Market
Since 2018, the US sports betting market has grown a lot. It’s now worth $10 billion and could hit $40 billion by 2030. Big names are leading this fast-growing field.
FanDuel is at the top with a 45.1% share. DraftKings is close behind with 32%. BetMGM and Caesars Sportsbook each have 9.9% and 6%, respectively. These companies work in many states, offering lots of betting choices.
PointsBet sports betting is making its mark in the US. Bally Bet has also joined, now in seven states like Arizona, Colorado, and New York.
Operator | Market Share | States Operating |
---|---|---|
FanDuel | 45.1% | 20+ |
DraftKings | 32% | 20+ |
BetMGM | 9.9% | Multiple |
Caesars Sportsbook | 6% | Multiple |
PointsBet | Growing | Expanding |
Bally Bet | Emerging | 7 |
The market is growing thanks to more states legalizing it and the rise of online and mobile betting. As competition grows, these big players keep coming up with new things to grab more market share in this booming industry.
Legal Age Requirements for Sports Betting Across States
Sports gambling laws vary by state, and age restrictions are a significant factor. In most states where sports betting is legal, the minimum age is 21. This age requirement aligns with regulations for other adult activities and promotes responsible gambling.
Standard 21+ Rule
In the majority of states that have legal sports betting, the law sets the minimum age at 21.. States such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan adhere to this rule to protect younger individuals and maintain consistency with casino gambling regulations.
Exceptions for 18+ Betting
A few states allow individuals as young as 18 to participate in sports betting. These states provide opportunities for younger adults to engage in sports betting. Here is a list of states with a minimum betting age of 18:
- Kentucky
- New Hampshire
- Rhode Island
- Washington, D.C.
- Wyoming
It’s crucial for bettors to verify the age requirements and other local regulations before placing bets to ensure compliance with the law.
The Economic Impact of Legal Sports Betting
Since 2018, regulated sports betting sites have brought a big economic boom to the U.S. They’ve made over $21 billion in revenue from $250 billion in bets. This growth has helped many parts of the economy.
Now, 37 states and Washington DC allow online sportsbooks. This has led to more jobs, higher taxes, and more tourism. The American Gaming Association says legal sports betting could support 216,671 jobs, creating $11 billion in income and $8.4 billion in taxes.
It’s not just about money. Small businesses like sports bars and shops see more customers and sales. Big sports events and legal betting make tourism and local economies grow.
Quarter | National Tax Revenue | Top State | Top State Revenue |
---|---|---|---|
Q3 2023 | $505.96 million | New York | $188.53 million |
Q2 2023 | N/A | Indiana | $38.6 million |
Q2 2023 | N/A | Ohio | $32.9 million |
In the third quarter of 2023, sports betting brought in 20.5% more tax money than the year before. New York was a big winner, making over 37% of the tax money in the second quarter. These numbers show how big a deal legal sports betting is for the U.S. economy.
States on the Verge of Legalizing Sports Betting
The world of legal sports betting is changing fast. Now, 38 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico allow it. Many others are close to making it legal. Let’s look at where you can bet on sports and which states might join soon.
Pending Legislation
Missouri is a big contender with +250 odds for legal sports betting. Professional teams support it, and a growing ballot initiative is backing it. Oklahoma’s journey is tougher, with debates between the government and Native American tribes. The House passed the bill by a wide margin, but the Senate has stalled it.
Public Opinion and Debates
People have different views on sports betting. Advocates argue that it can boost the economy, while critics express concerns about potential addiction. In Oklahoma, the proposed law could generate up to $9.35 million annually, with a substantial portion allocated to education—an argument that strengthens the case for legalization.
Other states, like Georgia, Minnesota, and South Carolina, encountered obstacles during their 2024 legislative sessions. Alabama also struggled with disagreements over gaming bills in both the House and Senate. These examples highlight the complex balancing act between economic benefits and social concerns.
Challenges and Controversies in Sports Betting Legalization
The move to legalize sports betting in the USA has brought many challenges. Sports gambling laws differ by state, but common issues appear on regulated sports betting sites. The integrity of sports is a major concern, with many high-profile cases showing the risks.
In 2023, the University of Iowa and Iowa State looked into dozens of athletes for breaking NCAA betting rules. The NCAA says no to betting on any sport it sponsors. Yet, authorities have charged about two dozen athletes with underage gambling. This shows how hard it is to enforce betting rules in college sports.
Professional leagues also deal with these problems. Since 2018, the league has suspended at least 12 NFL players for breaking its gambling rules. The NFL has the toughest rules among major sports leagues, showing how serious the issue is.
League | Major Incident | Outcome |
---|---|---|
NFL | Calvin Ridley betting on games | Full season suspension (2022) |
NBA | Jontay Porter under investigation | Probe for betting against own stats |
MLB | University of Alabama coach scandal | Firing and school probation |
Despite these challenges, the sports betting industry keeps growing. In 2023, sports betting made $10.9 billion, a 45% jump from before. This growth has led to partnerships between sports leagues and sportsbooks. These partnerships raise questions about ethical lines and potential conflicts of interest.
How To Bet Legally and Safely in Your State
Betting legally and safely means knowing your state’s rules and picking trusted sportsbooks. With 34 states now offering legal sports betting, it’s key to understand the rules for you.
- Verify Sportsbook Legitimacy: Ensure you use online sportsbooks that are legal in your area and have reputable brands. DraftKings and FanDuel, licensed and regulated, ensure fair play and secure transactions.
- Understand State-Specific Regulations: Each state has its own rules for sports betting. Some permit both online and retail betting, while others restrict it to physical locations. For instance, Delaware switched from 888 Holdings to BetRivers for online betting. Always review your state’s current laws before placing any bets.
- Utilize Responsible Gambling Resources: Reputable sportsbooks offer tools for responsible gambling, such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and break reminders. Betting should be enjoyable, not a financial strategy. Seek help from state gambling support services if needed.
Additional Tips for Safe Betting
- Verify sportsbook licenses with your state’s gaming commission.
- Use geolocation services to ensure you’re betting legally.
- Report your winnings as “other income” on your tax forms.
- Avoid offshore betting sites that may not protect your funds or personal data.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safer and more responsible betting experience.
The Future of Sports Betting: Balancing Growth, Responsibility, and Opportunity
The growth of sports betting has significantly increased revenue, with both states and sports leagues benefiting financially. However, this expansion also raises important concerns, such as gambling addiction and match-fixing.
As more states consider legalizing sports betting, finding a balance between economic benefits and social responsibility becomes crucial. We must implement robust measures to ensure responsible gambling and maintain the integrity of sports.
The future of sports betting appears promising, with continued growth and innovation on the horizon. However, it is vital to prioritize fairness and player protection to sustain a healthy betting environment. By addressing these concerns proactively, we can enjoy the benefits of legal sports betting while minimizing potential risks.
Now that you’re up to speed on where sports betting is legal in the USA, it’s time to take the next step. Don’t miss out on your chance to turn knowledge into winnings! At All The Picks, we offer expert predictions, in-depth insights, and actionable betting tips that give you the edge you need. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just starting out, our resources will help you make informed, confident decisions. Join our community and start making smarter, more strategic bets today!
1 Comment
This is awesome