World Series of Politics Episode 12: Missouri, Georgia, New York and federal intervention
Momentum building in Missouri?
The dynamic duo kick off with Missouri, where multiple attempts to regulate betting have been made over the past five years.
Senator Denny Hoskins has long been a champion of the industry, but could 2023 be the year Missouri sports betting finally crosses line? Once again there’s a bottle of wine on the time, as to whether it beats North Carolina in regulating.
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All systems go in Georgia?
There’s also renewed hopes for Georgia sports betting, although it’s looking likely to go to a ballot, Brendan says. After its missteps in Florida and California, the industry will have to learn from each of those failures if it is to enjoy a successful campaign.
However Brandt argues sports betting should be treated as a new lottery product, something that would avoid a public vote on the matter. The guys are split on whether a bill makes it through by the end of March; Brandt is confident, but Brendan is more circumspect.
Empire State has igaming in mind
The US igaming market may be expanding, with senator Joseph Addabbo filing a proposal to legalise online casino in New York. A 30.5% tax rate is tough, Brandt says, although it would allow up to 20 licences.
New York differs from others states in that the prospect of new revenue, rather than consumer protections, are front of mind. But a focus on generating revenue may result in a model that isn’t fit for purpose, Brendan warns. Just look at the state’s mobile sports betting controls.
Federal controls on the horizon?
Episode 12 ends by looking at moves in Washington DC, with the government seeking to bring in the FCC to monitor industry advertising.
But is this sort of intervention justified, when gambling has been treated as a state issue for so long?