Senator Bill Coleman Pushes for Sports Betting Legalization in Oklahoma

18.09.2024

Oklahoma State Senator Bill Coleman is renewing efforts to legalize sports betting after previous attempts fell short in the last legislative session.

Renewed Efforts for 2025

Senator Coleman, who introduced a sports betting bill last year, remains committed to pushing the legislation forward in the upcoming 2025 session.

“There is a demand for sports betting in Oklahoma,” Coleman emphasized, pointing to the growing interest among state residents to participate legally.

In preparation for his renewed push, Coleman has engaged in discussions with sports betting companies, including FanDuel, to address concerns about problem gambling. “I was concerned about people who have an addiction and how easy it was,” Coleman said.

However, he noted that sports betting companies use advanced technology and artificial intelligence to monitor for problematic behavior, helping to mitigate risks.

Economic Benefits for the State

Coleman has also highlighted the significant economic potential that legal sports betting could bring to Oklahoma. “The figures I keep hearing are around $150 million in state revenue that would come out with sports betting,” he stated, underlining that the state could benefit from keeping betting revenue within its borders.

Senator Coleman is urging Oklahoma residents to voice their support for sports betting by contacting their legislators. With enough public backing, he believes Oklahoma could soon join the growing number of states that have legalized sports betting, allowing residents to participate in the booming market.