A group of bipartisan legislators in Delaware has proposed House Bill 365, aiming to expand online sports betting options in the state beyond the current monopoly held by BetRivers. The bill would allow the state’s three casinos to partner with up to two online sportsbook operators each, potentially bringing in big names like DraftKings and FanDuel. This move is seen as a way to increase tax revenue for the state and provide residents with more options for sports betting.
The bill has wide support but is likely to face opposition from BetRivers, as the entry of larger operators could threaten their market share. If passed, mobile sports betting operators would have to pay an 18% tax to the state and a 1.5% tax to the horse racing industry based on their partner casino. Operators would also have to pay a $500,000 fee for a five-year license.
The bill also includes measures to address gambling addiction, with a portion of the revenue going towards the Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health. The timeline for implementing the bill is uncertain, with concerns that it may not be in place for the start of the NFL season, potentially impacting revenue.
In addition, the bill prohibits in-state college sports wagering, citing concerns about potential match-fixing. While this prohibition is becoming more common, it may impact the overall betting experience for residents. Overall, the expansion of online sports betting in Delaware is seen as a positive step towards increasing options and revenue for the state.
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