5 States That Have Legalized Sports Betting
If you’re thinking about opening a sportsbook, there are several factors to consider. First, you need to know your betting values and habits. Some people prefer cash back and VIP treatment, while others prefer to bet on longshots. You also want to make sure you find a sportsbook that can help you bet on your favorite teams and underdogs.
Legalized sports betting in Arizona
The state of Arizona has legalized sports betting after passing a bill allowing 20 licensed gambling operators to open brick-and-mortar retail sportsbooks. Additionally, the state has given two licensed brands permission to operate online. Several Arizona-based commercial sportsbooks have already begun operations. However, some tribes are opposed to the concept of legalized sports betting.
The first Arizona sportsbooks opened in September 2021, and as of mid-2022, there are 18 licensed online sportsbooks. The state also offers mobile sports wagering. Sports betting in Arizona has seen a high level of activity, with over $1 billion in wagers placed in the first four months of legal betting.
Legalized sports betting in Colorado
Colorado is one of the most operator-friendly states when it comes to legalized sports betting. The state has a low tax rate of 10% for sports betting operators and has seen most of the major companies go live. While it is not a large market, it is still home to some major gambling brands and local brands.
The new legislation focuses on establishing responsible gaming programs and regulating sports betting. The bill is expected to bolster the retail sector in Colorado. In addition to this, it will allow Colorado casinos to raise table game bet limits and offer mobile sports betting. Until now, sports betting in the state has been confined to licensed casinos. However, Amendment 77 allows brick-and-mortar sportsbooks as well as online sportsbooks to operate in the state.
Legalized sports betting in Michigan
Sports betting in Michigan was legalized in December 2019 but it took some time before the industry began to take off. The state experienced a COVID-19 pandemic and a nationwide lockdown which made the launch of retail sports betting in Michigan a little bit delayed. In January 2021, online sports betting was finally launched and Michiganders were able to place bets on sporting events from any location in the state.
In the end, legalized sports betting in Michigan has brought many positive benefits to the state, including tax revenue and a regulated market. In 2018, the state’s 14 licensed operators paid about $19.3 million in taxes, excluding receipts from retail sports betting.
Legalized sports betting in Virginia
Legalized sports betting in Virginia allows residents to wager on professional and college sports. However, there are some restrictions. For example, residents of Virginia are prohibited from betting on in-state college sports and from placing prop bets on games. Additionally, sportsbooks in the state are subject to a 15% tax rate on their revenues. However, sportsbooks can deduct certain expenses, including advertising and promotions, from their revenues.
The state of Maryland is still in the midst of legalized sports betting. It has been almost two years since lawmakers approved legislation allowing sports betting in Maryland. Though there are several online sportsbooks in Maryland, they are unlikely to compete with legal Virginia sportsbooks anytime soon. While Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan has asked for a speedier process for the state’s sports wagering application, the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission has yet to give a concrete date. In addition, mobile sports betting in Maryland is not expected to open until next year. Meanwhile, Virginia’s 12 online sportsbooks are already taking about $36 million in bets every month.