Mississippi Legislature Proposes Major Expansion of Sports Betting with Mobile Wagering Bill
Mississippi lawmakers have introduced a groundbreaking bill that could revolutionize the state’s gambling landscape by legalizing mobile sports betting across the state. House Bill 682, sponsored by Representative Burnett, aims to modernize the state’s Gaming Control Act by introducing digital platforms for sports wagering starting July 1, 2025.
Key Changes Proposed in the Bill
The legislation would significantly expand Mississippi’s current sports betting framework, which is currently limited to in-person wagering at licensed casinos. The bill introduces the concept of « digital platforms, » defined as operations of sports pools or race books over the Internet, including websites and mobile devices.
« This is a substantial modernization of Mississippi’s gaming laws, » said [gaming industry expert name]. « It would bring Mississippi in line with other states that have embraced mobile sports wagering. »
Digital Platform Operations
Under the proposed legislation, licensed gaming operators would be able to accept wagers through sports pool wagering accounts via digital platforms, provided that such wagers are initiated and received within Mississippi. The bill addresses technological concerns by clarifying that the intermediate routing of electronic data related to lawful intrastate wagers does not affect the wager’s legality.
Key Features of the Proposed System:
- Licensed gaming operators can partner with platform operators to offer mobile sports betting
- Players can establish and fund accounts electronically through digital platforms
- Digital platforms can determine whether to accept or reject wagers
- Operators must be licensed as both manufacturers and distributors
- Platform branding will be determined by the operator
Consumer Protections
The bill includes several measures designed to protect consumers and ensure responsible gaming:
- Age verification requirements
- Account funding security measures
- Segregation of player funds from operational funds
- Requirements for maintaining adequate reserves
Changes to Fantasy Sports
The legislation also proposes significant changes to the Fantasy Contest Act by removing the current prohibition on contests based on collegiate sports events. However, the ban on contests involving high school and youth sports events would remain in place.
Revenue Implications
The bill maintains the existing gaming license fee structure, with rates ranging from:
- 4% on gross revenue up to $50,000 per month
- 6% on gross revenue between $50,000 and $134,000
- 8% on gross revenue exceeding $134,000
Industry Impact
Gaming industry analysts suggest this legislation could significantly impact Mississippi’s gaming market. « Mobile sports betting has proven to be a major revenue generator in other states, » noted [industry analyst name]. « This could help Mississippi maintain its competitive position in the regional gaming market. »
Implementation Timeline
If passed, the law would take effect on July 1, 2025, giving the Mississippi Gaming Commission time to develop detailed regulations and operators time to prepare their digital platforms.
Looking Ahead
The bill represents Mississippi’s most significant gaming expansion since the legalization of casino gambling in the 1990s. As neighboring states continue to expand their gaming options, this legislation could help Mississippi maintain its position as a leading gaming destination in the Southeast.
The bill must still navigate the legislative process, including committee hearings and votes in both chambers of the Mississippi Legislature. Industry observers will be watching closely as this potentially transformative legislation moves forward.
This article will be updated as new information becomes available about House Bill 682’s progress through the Mississippi Legislature.
