Missouri’s Sports Betting Launch Delayed
Missouri sports betting is facing a delay, despite a constitutional requirement mandating its launch no later than December 1, 2025. While the industry was originally set to go live in mid-2025, the timeline has been pushed back due to regulatory roadblocks.
What’s Causing the Delay?
The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) had planned to fast-track the launch under emergency rules. However, Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins rejected this approach, citing the lack of an urgent public health or safety concern that would justify bypassing standard procedures.
Without emergency approval, the process must now follow a traditional regulatory timeline, including a public comment period and additional reviews.
This decision has shifted the anticipated launch to August 30, 2025, rather than the initial summer 2025 target.
The Road to Legalization
Missouri voters narrowly approved Amendment 2 in November 2024, officially legalizing sports betting through a constitutional amendment. The measure passed with just 50.05% of the vote, a margin of fewer than 3,000 votes:
- Yes – 1,478,651 votes
- No – 1,475,691 votes
With the amendment’s approval, Missouri is now obligated to implement sports betting by the end of 2025.
Before sportsbooks can operate, Missouri must finalize its licensing process. Once regulations are in place, operators will need 60 to 90 days for approval before they can start accepting bets.
The Missouri Gaming Commission will oversee the state’s sports betting market, covering both online sportsbooks and retail locations, including riverboat casinos. Additionally, online betting revenue will be taxed at 10%, contributing to state funds.
Despite setbacks, the legal deadline of December 1, 2025, remains in place. While delays in regulatory approval have pushed back the launch date, Missouri officials are working to ensure the industry is live before the constitutional deadline.
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