Sports betting has become a popular entertainment industry around the world, but its legality varies depending on the country and region. While some countries have formalized and strictly regulated this activity, others still consider sports betting illegal or only allow it with certain limits. Understanding the legal regulations of each locality is essential for players to ensure compliance with the law and avoid unnecessary risks. Where is sports betting legal, and what regulations apply to players in those places? To get the answer, let's find out the details with Wintips experts in the following article.
Where is sports betting legal?
Sports betting has become legal in many countries and regions around the world, with each place applying separate regulations regarding the operation and supervision of this activity. In the United States, a 2018 Supreme Court ruling paved the way for states to legalize sports betting. To date, 38 states and the District of Columbia have allowed some form of betting, with 30 allowing online betting. Outside of the United States, countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and many European countries also have strict laws regulating sports betting.
In the United Kingdom, sports betting has long been legal and is regulated by the Gambling Commission, an agency tasked with overseeing and ensuring transparency in betting activities. Major bookmakers such as Bet365, William Hill, and Ladbrokes are all legal and trusted by players. The United Kingdom also allows betting on most sports, including football, horse racing, and tennis, with both online and live betting.
In Europe, many countries such as France, Spain, and Italy have also legalized sports betting, although each country has its own regulations for licensing and regulating betting companies. For example, in France, the ANJ (Autorité Nationale des Jeux) regulator oversees all betting activities, ensuring that betting sites and platforms comply with the law and protect the interests of players. Europe is one of the world's largest markets for sports betting.
Australia is also one of the countries with a thriving sports betting market. Sports betting in Australia is regulated by different regulatory bodies depending on the state or territory, such as the Northern Territory Gambling Commission or the Victorian Racing Control Commission. Australians can bet on a variety of sports such as rugby, cricket, and horse racing through online betting platforms and at local betting outlets.
In addition, some Asian countries such as the Philippines and Singapore also allow legal sports betting, although regulations in this region are somewhat stricter. The Philippines is home to many licensed online bookmakers, regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). In Singapore, sports betting is only allowed through state-licensed bookmakers, such as Singapore Pools, which helps strictly control betting activities and prevent illegal gambling.
What states allow sports betting in the United States?
In what states are sports betting legal? In the United States, the number of states that allow sports betting has increased significantly since the Supreme Court struck down the federal ban in 2018. Here is a list of states that have legalized and regulated sports betting, including both online and physical betting (as of 2024):
- Nevada – Was the first state to legalize sports betting.
- New Jersey – One of the first states after the ban was struck down.
- Pennsylvania – Allows both in-person and online betting.
- New York – Legalized in-person betting, and later expanded it to online betting.
- Illinois – Legalized both online and physical sports betting.
- Michigan – Legalized both in-person and online betting.
- Colorado – Allows both in-person and online betting.
- Indiana – Legalized both in-person and online betting.
- Lowa – Allows both in-person and online betting.
- Virginia – Online and in-person betting is legal.
- West Virginia – Both in-person and online betting are legal.
- Tennessee – Online betting only, no in-person betting.
- Arizona – Both in-person and online betting are legal.
- Louisiana – Both in-person and online betting are legal.
- Connecticut – Both online and in-person betting are legal.
- Maryland – Both in-person and online are legal.
Additionally, several other states are considering legalizing sports betting shortly, and regulations may vary by state.
Active sports betting laws in 2024
Sports betting laws in the US have changed and evolved a lot since the US Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018.
Here are some highlights of active sports betting laws in the US in 2024 that you need to know after learning how many states have legalized sports betting:
- State-by-state laws: After PASPA was struck down, each state has the right to decide whether to allow sports betting. By 2024, many states have passed laws allowing sports betting, while some states have either not allowed it or have very strict regulations.
- Online and in-store betting: Many states allow online sports betting through mobile apps, while some only allow betting at sports facilities or casinos. Some states, such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, have developed online betting platforms.
- Minimum Age: The minimum age for sports betting is typically 21, but some states may have different age requirements. This can impact accessibility for players.
- Taxation: Winnings from sports betting are often taxable, and the tax rate can vary from state to state. Players are required to report and pay taxes on their winnings.
- Betting on non-official events: Some states also have regulations that allow betting on unofficial events such as esports or other entertainment events.
- Consumer Protection: Many states have consumer protection measures in place, including regulations on advertising, privacy, and preventing illegal betting activities.
Sports betting laws can continue to change, so players should research the specific regulations in their state before placing bets.
Future trends in sports betting
By 2024, the US sports betting market is set to reach a record $11 billion in revenue. Imagine its continued growth with the advent of mobile apps and commercial casinos. Moreover, the states that have been slow to adopt regulations will soon join in. Expect places like South Carolina and New Mexico to consider legalization. Moreover, traditional casinos are now offering mobile sports betting.
In addition, emerging technologies can further boost online sports betting. Check out the following trends in online sports betting:
- Cryptocurrency: Legal online sportsbooks have invested in various payment methods, including cryptocurrency. Among them are cryptocurrency and blockchain. They offer faster transactions and enhanced privacy.
- AI and ML: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) provide numerous benefits. They are an integral part of predictive analytics and personalized betting.
- Mobile Platforms: Mobile platforms promote accessibility like no other. However, mobile platforms must be accompanied by geolocation technology and consumer protection.
- Regulatory Technology: RegTech helps legal online sportsbooks simplify compliance requirements. This technology allows for easier tax collection and regulation.
Furthermore, sports betting variants are emerging. We are witnessing the growing popularity of eSports betting and Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). All of these trends point to sustainable success for online sports betting.
Conclusion
Here we have helped you decipher where sports betting is legal. Legal sports betting is growing and becoming an important part of the entertainment industry in many states in the US. Since the Supreme Court struck down PASPA, players have had more opportunities to participate in sports betting activities in states that allow it, both online and in-store. Each state has its regulations regarding age, betting types, and tax rates, so understanding the specific laws is essential for those who want to participate. The growth of sports betting not only brings economic benefits but also promotes the development of sports and entertainment events. However, players also need to be careful and comply with the regulations to ensure their betting experience is safe and legal. We wish you all the best!
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