After months of uncertainty, online Mississippi sports betting is still alive thanks to a last-minute push from the conference committee. The bill, which would legalize online sports betting in the state, appeared to be dead in the water after being tabled by the House earlier this month. However, the committee, composed of members from both the House and Senate, made a surprise move to resurrect the bill and keep it moving through the legislative process.
The bill, known as HB 172, would allow for online sports betting to be operated by licensed casinos in Mississippi. This is a significant development for the state, which has been lagging behind neighboring states in legalizing online sports betting. Currently, Mississippi only allows in-person sports betting at its casinos, but the new bill would expand the options for bettors to place wagers from their mobile devices.
Supporters of the bill argue that legalizing online sports betting would not only generate much-needed revenue for the state but also provide a safer and more regulated environment for sports bettors. By allowing licensed casinos to operate online sportsbooks, the state can ensure that bettors are protected and that any potential issues, such as problem gambling, can be addressed proactively.
Opponents of the bill, however, have raised concerns about the potential negative impacts of legalizing online sports betting. Some worry that it could lead to an increase in problem gambling, particularly among vulnerable populations. Others argue that online sports betting could detract from the overall casino experience and lead to a decline in revenue for the state’s brick-and-mortar casinos.
Despite these concerns, the conference committee voted to move the bill forward, signaling that there is still support for legalizing online sports betting in Mississippi. The next step for the bill is to go to the full House and Senate for a final vote, where it will need to pass in order to become law. If successful, Mississippi could join a growing number of states that have legalized online sports betting in recent years.
Overall, the future of online sports betting in Mississippi remains uncertain, but the recent developments from the conference committee are a positive sign for supporters of the bill. With potential revenue on the line and a chance to provide a safer and more regulated environment for sports bettors, the push for legalizing online sports betting in the state is still very much alive.