Another Georgia Sports Betting Bill Introduced

A Georgia legislator has proposed a new bill seeking to put sports betting into the state lottery’s purview.

It is the most recent attempt to legalize Peach State sports betting. 

Senator Billy Hickman has submitted Senate Bill 208, which would give the Georgia Lottery control and sports betting capability. Unlike other ideas calling for constitutional revisions, this measure aims to legalize Georgia sports betting within the lottery’s current structure.

This most recent action follows the introduction of Senate Resolution 131, which would amend Georgia’s constitution to legalize sports betting.

Is amendment needed for Georgia sports betting?

Previous attempts to legalize sports betting have failed because of contradicting legislative policies. A constitutional amendment needs public approval and a two-thirds vote in both legislatures. Should it be approved, SR 131 would still require other laws, like SB 208, to establish the foundation for sports betting.

Several interested parties contend that legalizing sports betting in Georgia does not call for a constitutional change. Under its current authority, they think the state lottery could control and monitor sports betting, therefore negating the need for a voter referendum. Opponents counter that legislation cannot permanently take effect without a constitutional modification. 

Any sports betting law needs bipartisan support to advance, especially measures requiring a two-thirds majority in both chambers. Although some legislators view sports betting as a means of earning state income, opposition exists on both sides of the debate.

While some Democrats remain dubious because of issues over consumer protections and the possible impact on underprivileged areas, conservatives have voiced worries about the moral and social ramifications of increased gambling.

Lottery would regulate sports betting

Under Sen. Hickman’s plan, the Georgia Lottery would be the state’s main authority on sports betting. The measure would give the lottery a master license and total control over the industry.

Additionally, the Georgia Lottery can award up to eighteen licenses to qualified organizations. These licenses could be granted to professional sports teams in the state and big events such as the Masters at Augusta National and NASCAR venues. 

The plan calls for a 25% tax on sports betting income to create state revenue, therefore augmenting public money and perhaps helping other state initiatives, including education.

Growing support for Georgia sports betting

Several advocates, including Sen. Brandon Beach, have continued to push for the legalization of sports betting during the legislative recess. 

Public and industry data suggest that sports betting is gaining momentum in Georgia. A University of Georgia poll found that 63% of residents support legal sportsbooks. 

Meanwhile, a report from GeoComply earlier this year found that during the 2024 NFL season, 297,239 sportsbook accounts attempted to access platforms from within Georgia, which is a sharp 101% increase from last year’s data.