Missouri Sports Betting Launch Delayed Following Emergency Rules Rejection

The rollout of sports betting in Missouri is once again impacted by Denny Hoskins.

Once a senator who torpedoed sports betting legislation, now Secretary of State Hoskins has rejected emergency regulations proposed by the Missouri Gaming Commission.

Denying the emergency rules means Missouri sports betting will be pushed back months and could miss the beginning of the NFL season. Sports betting must be live in the state by Dec. 1. 

Emergency Sports Betting Rules Denied

Hoskins cited Missouri’s legal requirements for emergency rulemaking as the reason for the rejection.

“Following a thorough review, it was determined that these regulations do not meet the legal threshold for emergency rulemaking,” he explained.

Missouri law permits emergency rules only when there is an immediate threat to public health, safety, welfare, or urgent government interests require swift action. Since sports betting did not meet these conditions, Hoskins said, the standard rulemaking process must be followed, delaying implementation. 

Potential Changes to Missouri Sports Betting Licensing?

A separate issue regarding online sportsbook licenses is also under debate. Before the November 2024 vote approving sports betting, the MGC indicated that each physical casino location would receive one online sports betting license.

However, reports suggest that the Missouri Attorney General’s Office is reconsidering this approach. If the ruling shifts to allow only one online sportsbook license per casino company instead of per location, it could significantly impact operators that own multiple casino properties in the state.

Many expected multiple licenses under the original interpretation. The attorney general’s office has not clarified whether this change will be implemented.

Regulatory Process and Licensing Approval

The MGC must finalize regulations before sportsbooks can launch. Until these are approved, applications for sports betting licenses cannot be processed.

Typically, licensing approvals take 60 to 90 days. If the final rules are enacted by late summer, the MGC may still process applications before the 2025 NFL season kicks off on Sept. 4. While the timeline is tight, the MGC remains within the legal window to introduce sports betting in Missouri.

Hoskins’ Role in Missouri Gambling Legislation

Hoskins has played a central role in Missouri gambling legislation for years. He previously introduced bills to legalize sports betting and video lottery terminals, but his efforts to link the two issues failed to gain legislative support.

Additionally, Hoskins had been instrumental in blocking standalone sports betting bills, using filibuster tactics to prevent votes in the Senate. His influence continues to shape Missouri’s gaming policies, even as rulemaking progresses.

Despite rejecting the emergency rules, Hoskins reassured stakeholders that Missouri remains committed to legalizing sports betting.

“This decision does not halt ongoing efforts to develop and implement gaming policies,” he said. “The secretary of state’s office will continue working with stakeholders to finalize regulations.”