Wyoming Senate Passes Mobile Sports Betting Bill
Contents
What’s In The Bill?
While Wyoming isn’t a large state, they will likely see many of the main operators like BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, PointsBet, and William Hill. These are some of the top sportsbooks in the country and would make them qualified applicants, which is what the Wyoming Gaming Commissions wants. There is also room for more operators. Because of the state population, there might not be a mad rush for all five to enter. Other operators, like WynnBet, might look to pass on Wyoming given the lack of market.
Each of those who hold a license will have to pay $100,000 at the beginning and then a $50,000 renewal every five years. Wyoming was smart in allowing both in-state and out-of-state betting for college sports. Some states have banned in-state college betting. One of the major changes compared to most states is that they have the age set for 18 and older, compared to 21 and older. With the main goal being to eliminate offshore sportsbooks, which requires users to be just 18, they clear that 18-21 age group.
What’s Next
With both bills being passed and being nearly the same, the state will look over any minor differences and clean up the bill. With no major differences at play, this isn’t expected to cause any holdup. It would then go to Gov. Mark Gordon, where he would sign the bill. Gordon has not been very vocal about sports betting within the state, but there is an overall expectation for him to sign.
After his signature, the gaming commission would begin to formalize the rules and fees for operators and those betting within the state. This period has been very short for some states, but some states have taken even more than a year to formalize. If Wyoming is looking to get revenue in as quickly as possible, there will be a quicker window. Sportsbooks and states often push for a football deadline, where both the NFL and college football brings in the most handle of any of the major sports.
Overall this was a very productive period for Wyoming sports betting, with the Senate passing 24-5. This is quite different from the nail-biter at the house. Those in Wyoming should expect news moving forward about future dates. Continue to follow along at Lineups to see the most updated betting news for when and what operators would launch in Wyoming.
