Mississippi Mobile Sports Betting Takes A Step Closer to Legalisation

The state of Mississippi is still making progress towards the legalization of online sports betting. Recent legislative actions have breathed new life into the discussion, raising hopes for a favourable outcome.

Mississippi’s journey towards online sports betting began in 2018 with the legalization of in-person sportsbooks and apps on casino properties. This landmark decision paved the way for further discussions on expanding the scope of sports betting within the state. Fast forward to the present, and we find ourselves at a crucial juncture as legislators work towards finalizing a comprehensive bill.

Last week, the Mississippi Senate took a significant step forward by advancing House Bill 774, albeit with a strike-all amendment that maintains the existing Mississippi sports betting law. While this amendment keeps the legislation intact, it also paves the way for collaborative efforts between members of both chambers in a conference committee. Industry insiders suggest that the conference committee could convene as early as the week of April 22, allowing for further deliberation and refinement of the bill.

As the legislative session draws to a close on May 5, time is of the essence for lawmakers to make progress on House bills. The Senate’s recent actions have kept the conversation on online sports betting alive, providing an opportunity for thorough consideration of various aspects before statewide legalization can be realized. Senator David Blount acknowledges the importance of these deliberations and anticipates the House inviting a conference committee to further shape the bill.

The House’s initial version of the bill sets the stage for Mississippi’s 26 casinos to offer statewide online sports betting. Under this proposal, each casino would have the opportunity to partner with a single online operator, creating a diverse and competitive market. To regulate the industry effectively, the state would impose a tax rate of 12% on online sports betting revenue, ensuring a fair and sustainable source of income for Mississippi.

The Senate’s strike-all amendment not only keeps the online sports betting conversation alive but also demonstrates the commitment of lawmakers to thoroughly evaluate all aspects of the proposed legislation. Senators are aware of the complexities involved in legalizing statewide online sports betting and understand the need for careful consideration before reaching a final decision. This amendment serves as a catalyst for further collaboration and refinement of the bill.

Industry insiders predicted Mississippi sports betting expansion to be among the most likely bills to pass this year, highlighting the growing support and interest in the potential benefits of online sports betting. The progress made in the current legislative session indicates a promising future for Mississippi’s sports betting industry, with the potential to enhance tourism, generate revenue, and provide a safe and regulated platform for sports enthusiasts.

Last year, the Mississippi legislature established a Mobile Online Sports Betting Task Force to study and explore various aspects of online sports betting. The task force, comprising experts and stakeholders from the industry, conducted extensive discussions and research on the subject throughout the fall of 2023. Representative Casey Eure, drawing upon the insights gained from these discussions, crafted the bill currently under consideration in the legislative session.