Find the best sports bettering bonuses here. Dive into the evolving landscape of sports betting in the U.S. Discover which states have embraced legal sports gambling and the best platforms for placing your bets.

The landscape of sports betting in the United States has undergone significant transformation, moving from the exclusivity of Nevada to a burgeoning number of states legalizing and regulating this form of gambling. This shift reflects the growing appetite for sports and betting alike, offering fans new ways to engage with their favorite games and events. As the legal framework continues to evolve, understanding where each state stands on sports betting is crucial for enthusiasts looking to participate.

This guide will provide an overview of the current state of sports betting across the U.S., highlighting where it’s legal, the best platforms for placing bets, and what future legislation might look like.

READ MORE: HERE’S OUR LIST OF THE BEST CONTESTS AND SWEEPSTAKES

The Journey to Widespread Legalization

It’s intriguing to see how far we’ve come since the days when Nevada stood alone in offering legal sports betting. The landmark Supreme Court decision in May 2018 was a game-changer, enabling individual states to determine their regulations around sports betting. As of December 2024, 38 states and Washington, D.C., have legalized sports betting in some form, with more states anticipated to follow suit

But with power comes responsibility. The variety in state laws can be confusing for enthusiasts. Some states might only permit in-person betting, others may focus on online platforms, and then there are nuances around which sports and what kind of bets are allowed.

Updates Across States As Of December 2024

There have been a few recent developments in the legalization of sports betting across states as of November 2024:

1. Newly Legalized and Active States: Kentucky recently launched online and retail sports betting, making it the 34th state to offer both types. Maine also began sports betting in November 2023, while Massachusetts legalized and launched online betting in early 2023, with major sportsbooks operating in these states​.
2. States with Recent Legislative Moves: In Missouri, voters have approved Amendment 2, legalizing sports betting in the state. The amendment passed by a narrow margin of approximately 0.15%, with about 2,877 votes separating the ‘yes’ and ‘no’ sides.
3. States Where Efforts Stalled: Efforts to legalize sports betting faced delays in Georgia, Hawaii, and Minnesota, where legalization discussions may resume as early as 2025. Oklahoma, despite supportive lawmakers, encountered delays in reaching agreements with state tribes.

These shifts reflect that some states, like Texas, California, and Alabama, remain resistant, while others see momentum building through public support or legislative adjustments. For the latest updates in each state, checking with local sources remains advisable.

Pros & Cons Of Sports Betting

Pros:

• Economic Boost: Legalized betting can bring significant economic benefits through taxation and job creation.
• Consumer Protection: Regulation ensures safer, more accountable betting environments.
• Diverse Options: Each state tailoring its laws can lead to diverse and localized betting options for residents.

Cons:

• Inconsistency: Varying laws can be confusing for bettors, especially those who travel frequently.
• Potential for Addiction: With easier access, there’s an increased risk for gambling addiction.
• Possible Integrity Concerns: With money involved, there can be concerns over match-fixing in sports.

READ MORE: SEE THESE CASH BACK SHOPPING DEALS AND PROMOTIONS FOR BONUS CASH AND REWARDS

State-By-State Update

From a single state offering sports betting to now over 34 states (plus Washington D.C.) having legalized some form of it, the progression is impressive. However, it’s essential to note that not all states have approached this form of gambling in the same way.

This list below provides a mix of the current legal status, public sentiment, economic impact, and potential changes in the landscape. It’s always recommended to consult local and state sources for the most recent updates.

• Alabama: Not yet legal. Proposed bills in previous years but faced opposition. Public sentiment leans towards legalization, and there are ongoing efforts in the legislature.
• Alaska: Not legal. No significant momentum, though a few advocates continue pushing for legalization.
• Arizona: Fully legal. Has partnerships with major sports teams for sportsbook operations. The state has seen significant revenue growth from sports betting.
• Arkansas: Legal. Recently expanded with more online operators. Tax revenue has benefited state educational programs.
• California: Not legal. Several tribal casinos have expressed opposition. A referendum for legalization might be in the pipeline.
• Colorado: Legal. Positive economic impact reported. Several operators continue to establish their presence.
• Connecticut: Legal. Tribal agreements have expanded the scope of betting. Mobile betting shows consistent growth.
• Delaware: Legal. Despite its limited scale, the state has observed steady revenue from sports betting.
• Florida: Legally complicated. Seminole Tribe holds significant sway. Potential expansions are under discussion.
• Georgia: Not legal. Legislative sessions have seen continuous debates, with hopes for a breakthrough.
• Hawaii: Not legal. There’s been little movement, but some grassroots efforts aim to introduce sports betting for tourism benefits.
• Idaho: No significant movement. Conservative stance on gambling remains.
• Illinois: Legal. Recent stats show Illinois among top states in betting revenue. Efforts to simplify the licensing process are underway.
• Indiana: Legal. Positive reception from the public. Some collegiate restrictions apply.
• Iowa: Legal. Adjustments to the initial regulatory framework have improved accessibility and user registration.
• Kansas: Proposed bills face challenges. The state’s major sports teams have shown support for legalization.
• Kentucky: Kentucky recently launched online and retail sports betting, making it the 34th state to offer both types.
• Louisiana: Legal in selected parishes. A phased approach is in place, with more parishes considering joining.
• Maine: They began sports betting in November 2023.
• Maryland: Legal. The recent launch of mobile betting has boosted state revenue.
• Massachusetts: After legalization, sportsbook operators have flocked to the state. Collegiate betting remains a debated topic.
• Michigan: Legal. Rapid growth observed. Detroit casinos and online platforms are thriving.
• Minnesota: Advocates are pushing for bills. Tribal casinos play a significant role in discussions.
• Mississippi: Coastal casinos dominate the scene. There’s been talk about expanding to online platforms.
• Missouri: The Missouri Gaming Commission is mandated to make sports betting available by December 1, 2025. However, officials are optimistic about an earlier launch, potentially by spring or summer 2025.
• Montana: State-run approach. There’s potential for growth, but the current model has faced criticisms.
• Nebraska: Some senators have shown support. However, definitive movement is yet to be seen.
• Nevada: The gold standard for sports betting. Constant evolution with tech integrations.
• New Hampshire: Mobile betting is dominant. The state is exploring partnerships for expanded offerings.
• New Jersey: Continues to challenge Nevada in terms of revenue. An example for other states.
• New Mexico: Tribal casinos hold the key. The potential for a broader market exists.
• New York: Huge revenue numbers post-legalization. Potential adjustments to the tax rate are being discussed.
• North Carolina: Legal in tribal casinos. The state recently allowed online sports betting, expanding beyond its earlier tribal-only model​.
• North Dakota: Grassroots efforts are pushing for a public vote.
• Ohio: After legalization, the state is working on refining regulatory structures.
• Oklahoma: Tribal discussions are crucial. Potential for a big market if agreements are reached.
• Oregon: State-run model with limited operators. Discussions to diversify the market are ongoing.
• Pennsylvania: Huge success post-legalization. Continues to attract major operators.
• Rhode Island: Compact state with significant betting activities. Looking to simplify user registration.
• South Carolina: Limited movement. Conservative views on gambling persist.
• South Dakota: Deadwood remains the hub. Tribes are exploring independent sports betting options.
• Tennessee: Mobile-only model is a success. There’s a push to include retail locations.
• Texas: Huge potential market. Sports franchises show support, but legislative challenges remain.
• Utah: Deep-rooted opposition to gambling. Minimal chances for change.
• Vermont: Some senators advocate for legalization. Potential for a future bill.
• Virginia: After legalization, the state focuses on responsible gambling initiatives.
• Washington: Tribal-only model. Some push for a broader market.
• West Virginia: A success story. The state balances mobile and retail betting efficiently.
• Wisconsin: Tribal influence is significant. Some tribes have shown interest in sports betting.
• Wyoming: Mobile sports betting is growing. The state is focusing on attracting operators with friendly regulations.

Here is a summary of which state sports betting is legal and which ones are not. The grouping provides a general view based on the legal status but it’s important to understand that even within “legal” states, regulations, and specifics may vary. The legal landscapes can change, so always refer to local and state legislation for the most updated information.

States Where Sports Betting is Legal

1. Arizona – Retail and online
2. Arkansas – Retail and online
3. Colorado – Retail and online
4. Connecticut – Retail and online
5. Delaware – Retail and limited online
6. Florida – Limited online with the Seminole Tribe
7. Illinois – Retail and online
8. Indiana – Retail and online
9. Iowa – Retail and online
10. Kansas – Retail and online
11. Kentucky – Retail and online (since 2023)
12. Louisiana – Select parishes, retail and online
13. Maine – Retail and online (since 2023)
14. Maryland – Retail and online
15. Massachusetts – Retail and online
16. Michigan – Retail and online
17. Mississippi – Retail (online only on-site at casinos)
18. Montana – Retail, limited online in specific locations
19. Nebraska – Limited retail
20. Nevada – Retail and online
21. New Hampshire – Online and retail
22. New Jersey – Retail and online
23. New Mexico – Retail (tribal only)
24. New York – Retail and online
25. North Carolina – Retail, newly expanded to online
26. North Dakota – Tribal retail only
27. Ohio – Retail and online
28. Oregon – State-run retail and online
29. Pennsylvania – Retail and online
30. Rhode Island – Retail and online
31. South Dakota – Limited retail in Deadwood
32. Tennessee – Online-only
33. Virginia – Retail and online
34. Washington – Tribal-only retail
35. West Virginia – Retail and online
36. Wisconsin – Tribal retail only
37. Wyoming – Online-only

States Where Sports Betting is Not Legal

1. Alabama – Active proposals, no legalization
2. Alaska – No recent movement
3. California – Previously proposed, tribal opposition
4. Georgia – Legislative hurdles, active proposals stalled
5. Hawaii – No active sports betting, limited legislative interest
6. Idaho – Strong anti-gambling laws
7. Minnesota – Legislative attempts stalled
8. Missouri – The Missouri Gaming Commission aims to launch sports betting by December 1, 2025, with hopes for an earlier start in spring or summer 2025.
9. Oklahoma – Discussions with tribes stalled legislation
10. South Carolina – Conservative stance on gambling
11. Texas – Legislative efforts continue; no legalization
12. Utah – Strong anti-gambling stance, unlikely to change
13. Vermont – Recently legalized, implementation in progress

Evolution of Major Sports Leagues’ Stance on Sports Betting

The landscape of sports betting in the U.S. has undergone significant transformation, and major sports leagues, including the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL, have adapted their stances in response.

NBA: Initially, the NBA was against the idea of legalized sports betting. However, this stance has changed over the years. The league’s commissioner, Adam Silver, has been notably open to the concept, arguing for a federal framework that allows states to authorize betting on professional sports. The NBA now sees the potential in engagement opportunities, partnerships with betting operators, and data sales related to sports betting.

NFL: For years, the NFL was a staunch opponent of legalized sports betting, voicing concerns about the integrity of games. However, with the changing landscape, the league has become more accepting. The NFL has since formed partnerships with various sportsbook operators and even allowed teams to sign sponsorship deals with betting companies. The relocation of the Las Vegas Raiders also signifies a softened stance towards the gambling industry.

MLB: MLB, like other leagues, was initially opposed to sports betting. Their concerns mostly revolved around the potential for game-fixing, especially given baseball’s historical scandals. However, the league’s attitude has evolved. MLB now has official partnerships with several sports betting operators and is looking to capitalize on fan engagement opportunities presented by legalized sports betting.

NHL: The NHL’s shift in perspective on sports betting has been evident, especially with the establishment of the Vegas Golden Knights in 2017 and the league’s partnership with major sports betting platforms. While the league was once reserved about the idea, they now recognize the potential for fan engagement and revenue streams.

Relevant Sports Betting Bonuses

Here are some promotions related to sports betting, sports in general, or relevant topics. We are in the process of updating these promotions, please be patient.

• PrizePicks: Get a deposit bonus of up to $100 to this Daily Fantasy Sports platform, where payout can be as much as 25X.
• Jackpocket: $2 in free play credits for this lottery app.
• PrizePool: 10% Bonus + 4.50% APY for this drawing & savings app
• Contest & Sweeps: Check out list of the best contests and sweepstakes to earn grand prizes worth up to tens of thousands of dollars.
• DraftKings: Get a deposit bonus of up to $500 in DK dollars (update pending)
• VividPicks: $100 Deposit Bonus (update pending)
• Collectable.com: Get $10 in fractional shares (referral program may no longer be available, update pending)
• StarStock: Get $10 welcome bonus (update pending)
• Fubo: Get $30 off your first payment for any $45 per month plan or $15 off your first payment for any plan $29.99–49.99 when you sign up for fuboTV using a friend’s fuboTV referral link. (review post pending)

READ MORE: GET CASH, PRIZES AND MORE WITH THESE REFERRAL DEALS

The Bottom Line

As we wrap up this exploration, it’s clear that the landscape of U.S. sports betting is evolving rapidly. While the patchwork of state laws can be challenging to navigate, it also reflects the diversity and autonomy of states to decide what’s best for their residents. There’s potential for significant economic uplift, but it’s essential to tread with caution and ensure that adequate safeguards are in place. As with all things, knowledge is power – and for those eager to place their bets, staying informed is key.

READ MORE: THIS BONUS OFFER FROM CHASE BANK IS CURRENTLY TRENDING

READ MORE: SEE THE BEST BANK BONUSES HERE AND THE BEST INVESTING BONUSES HERE.