Should Georgia legalize sports betting?

As the Super Bowl lights up screens across the nation, Georgia finds itself at a crossroads. While fans in neighboring states like Tennessee and North Carolina can legally place bets on their favorite teams, Georgians are left in the cold. Sports betting remains illegal in the Peach State, despite growing public support and repeated legislative efforts to change that. But the question remains: Should Georgia legalize sports betting? Let’s dive into the arguments for and against, the economic implications, and what the future might hold.

The Current State of Sports Betting in Georgia

Sports betting is currently illegal in Georgia, but that hasn’t stopped residents from participating. Thousands of Georgians use offshore platforms or travel to neighboring states to place bets, costing the state millions in potential tax revenue. According to geolocation data from GeoComply, over 42,000 Georgians attempted to access legal sportsbooks in other states during a single NFL weekend in 2024, marking a 105% increase from the previous year.

Despite this demand, legislative efforts have repeatedly stalled. In 2024, a bill to legalize sports betting passed the Georgia Senate but died in the House, primarily due to disagreements over how to allocate tax revenue and concerns about gambling addiction 11. Now, in 2025, lawmakers are trying again with Senate Resolution 131, which aims to put the issue on the 2026 ballot for voters to decide.

The Case for Legalization

Economic Benefits

One of the strongest arguments for legalizing sports betting is the potential economic boost. Proponents estimate that legal sports betting could generate $150 million annually in tax revenue for Georgia 4. This money could fund critical programs like the HOPE Scholarship, which provides financial aid to in-state college students, or be directed toward needs-based scholarships and rural healthcare initiatives.

Neighboring states like Tennessee and North Carolina have already reaped the benefits of legal sports betting. For example, North Carolina is on track to generate significant revenue from its newly launched sports betting market, and Georgia risks falling further behind if it doesn’t act soon.

Consumer Protection

Legalizing sports betting would also provide a safer environment for consumers. Currently, Georgians who bet on sports often use unregulated offshore platforms, which offer no consumer protections. If something goes wrong—such as a dispute over winnings or fraudulent activity—there’s little recourse for the bettor. A regulated market would ensure that operators are held accountable and that consumers are protected.

Keeping Up with the Times

With 39 states already legalizing sports betting, Georgia is increasingly an outlier. Major sporting events like the Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup, and MLB All-Star Game are held in Atlanta, but the state’s outdated laws could make it less attractive for future events. Legalizing sports betting would not only align Georgia with national trends but also enhance its reputation as a premier sports destination.

The Case Against Legalization

Gambling Addiction Concerns

Opponents argue that legalizing sports betting could exacerbate gambling addiction, particularly among young adults. Mike Griffin of the Georgia Baptist Mission Board has called sports betting “the most addictive form of gambling,” warning that legalization would “pour gasoline on a dumpster fire” 1. Critics also point to the aggressive marketing tactics used by sportsbooks, which often target vulnerable populations.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

For many, gambling is a moral issue. Some lawmakers and religious groups believe that legalizing sports betting would undermine the state’s values and lead to broader societal ills. They argue that the potential economic benefits don’t outweigh the moral costs.

Regulatory Challenges

Creating a regulatory framework for sports betting is no small task. Georgia would need to establish a Gaming Commission to oversee operations, issue licenses, and enforce rules. This process could be costly and time-consuming, and there’s no guarantee that the system would be free from corruption or inefficiency.

What’s Next for Georgia?

The fate of sports betting in Georgia now rests with Senate Resolution 131, which proposes a constitutional amendment to legalize both sports betting and casino gaming. If passed by the legislature, the measure would go to voters in 2026, with a potential launch date of 2027.

However, the road to legalization is fraught with challenges. The resolution requires a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate, a high bar in a state where lawmakers are deeply divided on the issue. Even if it passes, there’s no guarantee that voters will approve it. A similar referendum in Missouri passed by a razor-thin margin in 2024, highlighting the divisive nature of the issue.

Conclusion

The debate over sports betting in Georgia ultimately comes down to priorities. Proponents see it as an opportunity to boost the economy, protect consumers, and keep up with national trends. Opponents worry about the societal costs and moral implications.

As the 2025 legislative session unfolds, all eyes will be on Georgia. Will lawmakers finally give voters the chance to decide, or will sports betting remain a contentious issue for years to come? One thing is clear: The stakes are high, and the outcome will have far-reaching consequences for the Peach State.