Florida, USA, is famous for its long coastline and warm climate. It is not only a great destination for tourism but also a hub for various entertainment options. In the vibrant atmosphere of this state, online sports betting is not only a popular form of entertainment but also an emerging pastime. However, "Is Sports Betting Legal in Florida?" is an important question often asked by those who want to participate in this activity. So let's explore with Win tips experts whether is online sports betting legal in florida and important information to know when participating.
Florida sports betting updates
The landscape of Florida sports betting has undergone significant changes, with further developments expected soon. Check back on this page for Techopedia’s latest updates.
- Projected for Dec. 7, 2023: Sports betting will become available in person at the first of three casinos operated by the Seminole Tribe.
- Dec. 5, 2023: The Hard Rock online sports betting app becomes available to all Florida sports bettors.
- Dec. 1, 2023: The U.S. Supreme Court grants an application to extend the deadline for filing a petition for writ of certiorari, requesting a lower court to submit the case record for review in the Florida sports betting case. The deadline is extended from Dec. 11, 2023, to Feb. 8, 2024.
- Nov. 7, 2023: The Hard Rock betting app goes live, providing limited access to existing customers despite potential legal challenges. Various attorneys on the subject consider those actions unlikely.
- Nov 1, 2023: Hard Rock announces final plans to operate in-person (retail) Florida sports betting on Dec. 7.
- Oct. 26, 2023: The U.S. Supreme Court denies a request that would have prevented Florida’s Seminole Tribe from providing Florida sports betting as negotiated in a 2021 contract.
- September 2023: West Flagler and Associates, the firm acting as plaintiff against the state, asks the Florida Supreme Court to “find that Gov. Ron DeSantis and the state legislature exceeded their power in approving a 2021 compact with the Seminole Tribe that grants the tribe a monopoly on sports betting.”
- August 2023: West Flagler Associates, owners of Florida casinos competing with the Seminole Tribe, appealed that June decision. Hard Rock’s re-launch is delayed.
- June 2023: The U.S. Court of Appeals reverses the decision, saying the Seminole Tribe should be allowed to offer online betting in the state.
- December 2021: Florida online sports betting stops when a federal judge strikes the deal. The ruling said it violated state and federal laws.
Is sports betting legal in Florida?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Florida. In a significant turn of events, the U.S. Supreme Court's denial of a request in late October 2023 cleared the way for the Seminole Tribe to proceed with sports betting as outlined in a 2021 contract. This legal development led to the relaunch of the Hard Rock app, initially granting limited access to existing customers on November 7, 2023.
As of December 5, 2023, the app became available to all sports bettors in Florida, marking a crucial milestone. In addition to the digital platform, brick-and-mortar sportsbooks are scheduled to open starting December 7, 2023.
These recent strides mark a transformative era for Florida residents, allowing them to engage in sports betting both online and in person. The Seminole Tribe oversees this operation, managing sportsbooks and pari-mutuel facilities independently or through partnerships.
Florida sports betting enthusiasts seeking alternative options can explore offshore sportsbooks. It's important to note that the regulations governing these offshore platforms may vary compared to the legal framework in Florida, often adhering to international rules. Nevertheless, individuals in Florida interested in engaging in sports betting have the option to explore licensed offshore sportsbooks as a viable online alternative.
Who Can Partake in Florida Sports Betting?
Starting December 7, 2023, customers looking to participate in land-based and online sports betting at the Seminole Tribe’s casinos must meet the following requirements:
21 years of age or older
Although customers who wish to participate in lottery, bingo, poker, and pari-mutuel wagering on horses can be aged 18+, the sports bettors in Florida must be 21 years or older. This is to satisfy the legal requirements set forth by the betting site.
Valid Government-issued ID, valid email.
In addition to possessing a valid government-issued ID, potential Florida sports betting customers must maintain a valid email address. This will be used by the sports betting operator's representatives to verify a customer's status during the initial application process.
Stay within State Borders
As with all U.S.-based sports betting apps, a licensed sports betting site or app requires customers to be physically located in the state to place sports wagers. For example, geo-tracking technology prevents wagering on the Hard Rock Florida app outside state boundaries.
Taxable Winnings
Sports betting customers can deduct losses while working with their tax representatives, but they must also be aware of the requirements that accompany winning large bets. Florida has no state income tax, but winnings of $5,000 or more trigger an IRS notice, with 24% withheld.
What you can't bet on in Florida
Florida sports betting includes betting on professional, collegiate, and Olympic sports. However, certain types of wagers are not available to Sunshine State bettors. You will not find the following markets at Florida sports betting sites:
Politics
Politics is off-limits in Florida. No state has legalized this type of wagering to date.
Entertainment award ceremonies
Florida does not permit betting on celebrity award shows such as the Grammy Awards or the Oscars.
esports
It is uncertain whether esports betting will be introduced in Florida. For now, there is no legal way to bet on esports in the Sunshine State.
Conclusion
In this article, we have answered the question: Is sports betting legal in Florida? Hopefully, this article provides a clearer understanding of betting regulations in Florida, helping you navigate the betting landscape more effectively. Currently, Florida not only offers sports betting but also provides lotteries, poker, and various casino options, giving players numerous gambling opportunities beyond sports betting. We wish you the best of luck!
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