Missouri has been one of the states that have been considering legalizing sports betting for a while now. However, the efforts to legalize it have been stalled for some time due to various reasons. But, there is a new hope for sports betting enthusiasts in Missouri as a last-minute revival has boosted the hopes for sports betting in the state.
The revival of the sports betting bill came after the Missouri Senate added an amendment to the budget bill that would legalize sports betting in the state. The amendment was added by Senator Denny Hoskins, who has been a strong advocate for legalizing sports betting in Missouri.
The amendment would allow sports betting at casinos, as well as online and mobile platforms. The bill would also allow for the creation of a new regulatory body to oversee sports betting in the state.
The amendment was passed by the Senate with a vote of 20-14, and it will now move to the House for consideration. If the House approves the amendment, it will then go to Governor Mike Parson for his signature.
The revival of the sports betting bill has been welcomed by many in Missouri, including sports fans, casino operators, and lawmakers. Supporters of the bill argue that legalizing sports betting would bring in much-needed revenue for the state and create new jobs.
Opponents of the bill argue that legalizing sports betting would lead to an increase in problem gambling and could have negative social consequences. However, supporters of the bill point out that sports betting is already taking place in Missouri illegally, and legalizing it would allow for better regulation and oversight.
If the sports betting bill is passed in Missouri, it would join a growing number of states that have legalized sports betting since the Supreme Court struck down a federal ban on sports betting in 2018. Currently, 21 states and Washington D.C. have legalized sports betting.
In conclusion, the last-minute revival of the sports betting bill in Missouri has boosted hopes for sports betting enthusiasts in the state. The amendment would allow for sports betting at casinos, as well as online and mobile platforms, and create a new regulatory body to oversee sports betting in the state. If passed, Missouri would join a growing number of states that have legalized sports betting in recent years.
