When it comes to online gambling in the US, the legal landscape is an ever-changing one. Nonetheless, here are four states worth keeping an eye on throughout 2020.
Michigan
Santa arrived early in The Wolverine State as a full gambling expansion was signed into law in December 2019. In doing so, Michigan became the 20th state to legalize sports betting since PASPA was abolished and only the fifth to legalize online gambling.
Under the regulatory framework, three commercial casinos and 23 tribal casinos will be permitted to offer sports betting on-site and, significantly, online and via mobile, in addition to internet gaming including poker, blackjack, slots, and other casino-style games.
The market is set to launch ahead of March Madness, a popular call for Michiganders who hold their college basketball in high regard. As has been the case generally across the U.S, mobile wagering will follow the retail launch. But with PointsBet and The Stars group already having confirmed their presence in MI, a quick turnaround is anticipated.
Tennessee
Such a wait for online/mobile betting won’t be necessary for Tennessee. That’s because the Volunteer State will roll out an online-only market, the first of its kind across the US gambling landscape.
As a casino-less state, an offering based solely online is the only way for Tennessee to offer sports betting. As such, lawmakers have decided against setting a deadline for implementing the final regulations, choosing instead to ensure the industry is 100% ready from the off.
That said, an April/May launch remains the general consensus for Tennessee mobile sports betting. Applications from potential operators will be considered from February.
Colorado
The official countdown is on in The Centennial State. The new sports gambling law, approved by voters in November 2019, albeit narrowly, takes effect from May 1, 2020. And yes, mobile wagering via sports betting apps is included as part of the legislative framework.
Before then, the Colorado Limited Gaming Control Commission, who’ll oversee the industry, will work through applications from operators looking to gain one of 33 licenses available for physical and online sportsbooks. Those successful will be taxed 10% of their net profit to help fund the Colorado Water Plan.
Not that this has deterred interested parties. The state, which has a pro team in each major league, has received over 50 applications since November.
New York
More than $4 million was wagered in New Jersey during 2019, with the market leader continuing to dominate the US gambling landscape. But would NJ be enjoying as much success if full mobile wagering was available in New York?
It’s a question worth asking since more and more New Yorkers are breaking through geolocation fences to place legal sports bets in New Jersey, much to the financial gain of the Garden State. Betting from subway stations and trains is slowly becoming the norm for many locals, frustrated at the ongoing deadlock on the matter.
Although a bill to legalize online sports gambling has been passed by the State Senate, Gov. Andrew Cuomo remains strongly opposed to the idea of mobile wagering. But for how much longer he can allow New Jersey to essentially be fed money remains to be seen. The first half of 2020 will prove vital in terms of both sides reaching a compromise.
