Mississippi Governor Timothy Reeves has given his approval to House Bill 606, thereby enacting an online sports betting law in the state. This legislation, introduced to the state’s legislature in January, successfully passed through both the House and the Senate. The new law sets the stage for the establishment of a task force to explore the potential launch of online gambling in Mississippi, with the target year for implementation set for 2024.
Legislative Journey:
House Bill 606 underwent a comprehensive legislative process, beginning with its introduction in the House’s Gaming and Appropriations committee. It subsequently secured an overwhelming vote of 109-5 in favor. The bill then proceeded to the Senate’s Gaming committee, where it received another stamp of approval with a vote of 49-1.
Origins and Scope of the Bill:
Initially introduced by Representatives Casey Eure and Kevin Felsher, House Bill 606 initially aimed to authorize statewide mobile sports betting. It envisioned allowing all 26 of the state’s land-based casinos to form partnerships with online sportsbooks. However, the bill underwent significant revisions during the committee review process.
Provisions of the Final Law:
The enacted law paves the way for the formation of a Mobile Sports Betting Task Force. This task force is entrusted with studying the intricacies of online sports betting and making recommendations for future legislation in the next legislative session. The task force will comprise 13 members, co-chaired by Representative Eure and Senator David Blount, who chairs the Senate Gaming Committee.
Other task force members include Jay McDaniel, the executive director of the Mississippi Gaming Commission; Chris Graham, the commissioner of the Department of Revenue; and Larry Gregory, chairman of the Mississippi Gaming and Hospitality Association, or their designated representatives. Additionally, the co-chairs have the authority to appoint three members each to the task force. The final selection of task force members must be completed by July 31, as stipulated in the bill.
Sports Betting in Mississippi:
Mississippi’s foray into sports betting began with the launch of retail sports betting operations in August 2018.
Mississippi’s adoption of House Bill 606 marks a significant step toward the potential introduction of online sports betting in the state. The formation of the Mobile Sports Betting Task Force underscores the commitment to thorough exploration and informed decision-making in this evolving sector of the gambling industry.