- Legalization of sports betting in the New England states could be slow process
- Rhode Island will be the first and only state in New England with sportsbooks
- Some states not even considering sports betting at this time
Great news! Back in May 2018 the US Supreme Court ruled to abolish decades long prohibition against sports wagering. This means that any state can now offer the activity provided they amend their own laws. More than half the states are expected to do just that by 2020. Even more good news, you don't have to wait. Internationally-licensed online sports betting sites, some of which have been in business for 20 or more years now, can be accessed from all US states.
Rhode Island
It's the tiny state of Rhode Island that will be getting all the attention this Football season as sports betting has already been approved for two casinos. Mobile will not be so you'll need to supplement those bets placed at the casino sports book with your international sports betting accounts.
Still it is good to know that come October 1 (estimated schedule) you will be able to bet at the Twin River Casinos in either Tiverton or Lincoln.
Both of these casinos are an hour's drive from Boston and a half hour from Providence. Warwick, RI is just 30 minutes from the Lincoln establishment and 40 minutes from Worcester, MA.
Only single game wagering will be allowed and mobile offerings from either casino, if they become available, will be limited (most likely to the property itself)
Get the latest updates for Rhode Island sports betting
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Connecticut
Connecticut passed a bill in 2017 that called on the state Department of Consumer Protection to start preparing regulations should sports wagering ever be legalized.
The state would then have to negotiate with the two Tribes that currently run casinos in the state. From there the agreement would have to go before the Legislature for approval. The Bureau of Indian Affairs would then need to approve any bill.
This process could take place in 2019. Connecticut Governor Daniel Malloy has his blessing provided any bill makes sense. As we’ve seen in Pennsylvania, greed in the form of expensive licensing fees ($10 million) and steep tax ramifications could interfere with the process.
Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont
None of these states have indicated they are serious about legalized sports betting heading into the 2018 NFL season. That could change with the new legislative session in each state.
Massachusetts is very gambling-friendly, so be sure to watch the situation here during 2019.
- Ean Lamb, Gambling911.com