Mississippi House Rejects Senate’s Amendments, Mobile Sports Betting Bill Stalls

18.04.2024

Mississippi House of Representatives has declined to accept the Senate’s modifications to House Bill 774, a legislative effort initially aimed at legalizing online sports and race betting across the state.

The House’s decision was anticipated, as it set the stage for further negotiations aimed at reconciling differences on the issue.

Senate’s Strategic Amendments

The Senate had earlier removed key provisions related to mobile sports betting from the bill, a strategy intended to ensure the bill’s survival through various legislative deadlines.

This maneuver was also designed to extend discussions on the potential expansion of statewide mobile wagering, a topic that remains contentious among Mississippi lawmakers.

Hopes for Legalization Remain

Despite the setback, the rejection of the Senate’s amendments keeps alive the possibility of legalizing statewide online sports betting within the year.

Lawmakers continue to engage in behind-the-scenes discussions, indicating that the topic is still very much in play. Senator Blount emphasized this ongoing dialogue during a recent committee meeting.

Potential Changes and Future Prospects

Originally, H.B. 774 sought to enable online sportsbook operators to collaborate with Mississippi’s existing brick-and-mortar casinos to introduce mobile wagering. The bill also proposed a 12% tax rate on online betting revenues.

To move forward with legalizing mobile wagering this year, similar provisions would need to be reinstated in the legislation. The outcome will depend on whether lawmakers can bridge their differences and craft a bill that aligns with the interests of both the House and the Senate.