In a bid to bring online sports betting to Mississippi, the state’s legislature is making strides as an online sports betting bill gains momentum. The bill, introduced last month, recently secured the approval of the House committees on gaming and appropriations, marking a significant step forward in the state’s efforts to embrace online sports wagering.
House Bill 606: Paving the Way for Online Sports Betting:
Championed by Representative Casey Eure, the chair of the House Gaming Committee, House Bill 606 aims to amend section 97-33-1 of the Mississippi Code dating back to 1972. The proposed amendment is poised to open the doors for online sports wagering on sporting events. The bill also outlines the conditions under which land-based casinos within the state can collaborate with online operators to offer online sports betting services.
An Ongoing Journey:
This endeavor represents the fifth attempt by Mississippi lawmakers to introduce online sports betting in the state. The persistence of legislators underscores the growing recognition of the potential benefits of embracing online sports wagering while addressing the regulatory challenges that come with it.
The Establishment of a Mobile Sports Betting Task Force:
If the bill successfully gains approval from both the House and Senate, it will initiate the establishment of a Mobile Sports Betting Task Force. Comprising nine members, the task force will conduct a thorough examination of the subject and recommend comprehensive legislation in the upcoming session. The membership includes representatives appointed by the gaming committee in each legislative chamber, as well as key figures from the Mississippi Gaming Commission and the Department of Revenue.
Taxation and Regulation:
Online betting, if legalized, will be subject to taxation at the same rates as retail betting, which was initially approved in 2018. This approach ensures consistency in tax policy across different betting platforms and maintains fairness in the industry.
Past Attempts and Future Prospects:
This current legislative effort follows previous attempts to legalize online sports betting in Mississippi, including a proposal in January 2022 by Representative Cedric Burnett. While the journey to legalizing online sports wagering has faced challenges, the growing interest and support from lawmakers and stakeholders signal the potential for positive outcomes in the near future.
The advancement of House Bill 606 in the Mississippi Legislature marks a pivotal step towards introducing online sports betting in the state. As legislators navigate the complexities of regulation and taxation, the establishment of a Mobile Sports Betting Task Force demonstrates a commitment to a thorough and informed decision-making process. With each stride, Mississippi inches closer to embracing the digital frontier of sports wagering, aligning with the evolving landscape of the gaming industry.