Mississippi Moves Forward With Online Sports Betting Bill
Mississippi is making progress toward legalizing online sports betting, with the Mississippi Mobile Sports Wagering Act clearing key legislative hurdles. HB 1302 aims to bring mobile sports wagering and online horse race betting to the state.
How the Bill Would Work
Under the legislation, online sportsbooks must partner with physical casinos instead of operating independently. Each casino could host up to two online betting platforms, ensuring that brick-and-mortar casinos remain central to the industry. This model is similar to New Jersey’s system, where online operators function under casino licenses.
To comply with the law, sportsbooks must verify a bettor’s location to ensure all wagers happen within Mississippi’s borders. They also need age verification systems to prevent minors from gambling.
Additionally, the bill requires sportsbooks to offer responsible gaming tools, including self-exclusion options for problem gamblers. It also bans athletes, coaches, and referees from placing bets.
Revenue and Tax Structure
The bill proposes a 12% tax on online betting revenue, which could generate millions in new state income. Lawmakers plan to allocate $6 million annually to help small casinos remain competitive as the industry shifts online.
The rest of the tax revenue would support Mississippi’s Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund, improving infrastructure across the state.
The bill passed the House Gaming Committee, led by Representative Casey Eure, and later gained approval in the full House of Representatives. Now, it faces debate in the state Senate, where similar proposals have stalled in the past. Lawmakers must decide whether the bill expands the industry without hurting existing casinos.
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