Mobile sports betting legalization passes Mississippi House

In a significant legislative move, the Mississippi House of Representatives has passed House Bill 1302 (HB 1302), aiming to legalize mobile sports betting across the state. This development marks a pivotal shift in Mississippi’s approach to gambling, potentially transforming the state’s gaming landscape.

Background: The Evolution of Sports Betting in Mississippi

Mississippi has a storied history with gambling. In 2018, following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), the state swiftly legalized in-person sports wagering at its casinos. This move positioned Mississippi as a frontrunner in the southeastern United States’ gaming industry. However, while neighboring states advanced with online sports betting, Mississippi remained cautious, limiting mobile wagering to on-site casino premises.

The Push for Mobile Sports Betting

The introduction of HB 1302 signifies a concerted effort to modernize Mississippi’s gambling framework. Proponents of the bill, including House Gaming Committee Chairman Casey Eure, argue that legalizing mobile sports betting will curb illegal wagering and generate substantial tax revenue. Eure highlighted that an estimated $64 billion was wagered on illegal sports bets across the United States last year, with Mississippi accounting for approximately $3 billion of that market.

Key Provisions of HB 1302

Under HB 1302, bettors would no longer need to visit a casino to register for sports betting accounts; the entire process could be completed remotely within state lines. The bill mandates that online sportsbooks, such as DraftKings or FanDuel, partner with physical casinos in Mississippi. Each casino is permitted to collaborate with up to two sportsbook platforms, a revision from previous proposals that allowed only one partnership. This change aims to address concerns from smaller casinos about potential disadvantages in securing lucrative deals.

Taxation and Revenue Allocation

The bill proposes a 12% tax on sports wagers, with the generated revenue allocated to the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund, benefiting all 82 counties in Mississippi. This structure seeks to ensure that the economic benefits of mobile sports betting are distributed statewide, addressing concerns from lawmakers representing areas without casinos.

Addressing Concerns and Opposition

Despite its advancements, HB 1302 has faced opposition. Critics, including the Christian Action Commission, argue that expanding gambling access could lead to increased addiction and social issues. They emphasize the moral implications, citing concerns about the potential for gambling to become more accessible to younger populations and its presence in homes, schools, and even churches.

Next Steps: Senate Consideration

With the House’s approval, HB 1302 now moves to the Senate for consideration. The bill’s proponents are actively engaging with Senate leaders, aiming for a favorable outcome. If enacted, the platforms could go live on December 8, 2025, marking a new era for sports betting in Mississippi.

Implications for Mississippi’s Gaming Industry

Legalizing mobile sports betting could have far-reaching implications for Mississippi’s gaming industry. It positions the state to compete with neighboring regions that have already embraced online wagering. Moreover, by regulating and taxing mobile sports betting, Mississippi stands to gain significant revenue, which can be channeled into infrastructure projects and other public services.

Conclusion

The passage of HB 1302 by the Mississippi House represents a significant step toward modernizing the state’s approach to sports betting. As the bill moves to the Senate, stakeholders across the state are keenly observing its progress, recognizing the potential economic benefits and the importance of addressing associated social concerns.