Missouri Sports Betting: Legislation Updates & Launch Info

Legal sports betting is not yet live in Missouri, but a recent vote determined that this will change very soon. With the approval of Amendment 2, sports betting is expected to launch in Missouri by December 1, 2025 at the latest.

The following guide will delve into what this means, provide key dates to watch, and explain what you can expect from both online and retail sports betting in Missouri.

Is Sports Betting Legal in Missouri?

Sports betting is not yet live but it is technically legal in Missouri. Voters approved Amendment 2 in November 2024, which officially legalized sports betting in the state. This landmark decision has set the wheels in motion for the Missouri Gaming Commission to make sports betting available in the state by December 1, 2025.

If everything goes according to plan, the first legal bets in Missouri could be placed as early as the spring or summer of 2025. This development opens the door for each of Missouri’s six major professional sports teams to offer sports betting at retail locations near their stadiums. Additionally, online betting operators can apply for licenses, even if they are not affiliated with any Missouri casino or sports team.

Missouri’s Path to Legalize Sports Betting

Missouri’s journey to legalize sports betting has been a long and winding road. The state’s gaming commission and lawmakers have been exploring the possibility of regulating sports wagering for several years now. The push gained momentum in 2022 when neighboring Kansas launched legal wagering, prompting many Missourians to cross state lines to place their bets. This exodus highlighted the potential revenue Missouri was losing and reignited efforts to legalize sports betting within the state.

The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) took the lead from there, reaching out to gaming commissions across the United States to discuss rules and regulations. This collaborative approach aimed to create a robust regulatory framework that would ensure a fair and safe betting environment.

In 2024, Missouri voters narrowly approved Amendment 2, a landmark decision that legalized sports betting under the state’s constitution. This amendment empowers the MGC to regulate sports betting and issue several licenses to Missouri casinos, online sports platforms, and professional sports teams. With this approval, Missouri is on the cusp of joining the growing list of states that offer live, legal online sports betting.

Missouri Sports Betting Timeline

To further understand how Missouri reached this point, let’s take a look at a chronological timeline of key events:

• May 2021: The Missouri Senate fails to approve sports betting before the session ends due to disagreements over including video lottery terminals (VLTs) in the bill.
• April 2022: A filibuster by Sen. Denny Hoskins blocks the passage of HB 2502, with the inclusion of VLTs being a major sticking point.
• May 2022: Sports betting fails to pass in Missouri as lawmakers run out of time to vote before the end of the session, despite ongoing discussions about HB 2502.
• October 2023: Sixteen new sports betting proposals are submitted to Jefferson City, boosting the chances of putting sports betting on the November 2024 ballot.
• February 2024: HB2311 passes a special committee vote 5-2 as Missouri lawmakers push to legalize sports betting during the 2024 session.
• September 2024: Gubernatorial candidates in Missouri express support for the proposed sports betting bill.
• October 2024: The state begins public campaigns to educate residents about new sports betting laws and responsible gambling.
• November 2024: Missouri voters approve Amendment 2 with 50.1% of the vote, clearing the way for the state to establish regulatory frameworks and issue licenses for sports betting operators.

Missouri Gaming Commission’s Role in Sports Betting

As mentioned above, the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) is at the heart of the state’s efforts to regulate sports betting. Tasked with establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework, the MGC is responsible for licensing sports betting operators, setting taxation guidelines, and ensuring responsible gaming practices are executed. The commission has been diligently working on these regulations, drawing insights from other states to adopt best practices and avoid common pitfalls.

The MGC’s responsibilities extend beyond just licensing and taxation. They are also focused on creating a safe and fair betting environment for all participants. This includes setting stringent guidelines for operators to follow, ensuring transparency, and protecting consumers. This proactive approach by the MGC is crucial for a successful launch and sustainable growth of the sports betting industry in Missouri.

When Will Online Sports Betting Go Live in Missouri?

The big question on everyone’s mind is when online sports betting will go live in Missouri. According to the Missouri Gaming Commission, it must be available by December 1, 2025. However, depending on the speed of the regulatory process, the first legal bets could be placed as early as spring or summer of 2025.

Factors such as the establishment of regulations by the Missouri Gaming Commission and potential legal challenges could impact the launch date. If all goes well, Missouri could see online sports betting live just in time for MLB’s season and the NBA and NHL’s postseasons, providing a timely boost for sports fans and bettors alike.

Sports Betting Sites That Could Launch in Missouri

As the sports betting landscape in Missouri unfolds, several key players are expected to enter the market. Missouri will permit each of its six professional sports teams and six land-based casinos to apply for one online sports betting license apiece. There will also be two untethered licenses up for grabs, resulting in 14 total mobile licenses.

Major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel will likely receive the untethered licenses since they do not operate casinos in Missouri. These platforms are well-known for their robust parlay offerings and strong in-app tech, making them top contenders in the Missouri market.

In addition to DraftKings and FanDuel, other potential entrants include BetMGM, ESPN BET, and Caesars Sportsbook. The state will impose a 10% tax on sports betting revenues, expected to generate substantial annual tax income. With these players in the mix, Missouri’s sports betting scene is set to be both competitive and lucrative.

How to Sign Up with a Missouri Sportsbook

Signing up with a Missouri sportsbook will be straightforward. Users will likely need to provide basic personal information such as name, address, and date of birth. Most sportsbooks will require users to verify their identity through documentation, which may include a government-issued ID.

Many Missouri sportsbooks will offer new users promotional bonuses upon registration. It’s advisable to read the terms and conditions of each sportsbook before finalizing the registration process.

Is Retail Sports Betting Legal in Missouri?

Following the approval of Amendment 2, retail sports betting is set to be legal in Missouri. This allows certain sports teams and casinos to establish in-person betting locations, providing more options for local bettors. Under the new legislation, each of Missouri’s six major professional sports teams can create a retail betting venue near their respective stadiums.

In addition to sports teams, each of the state’s six casinos will also have the opportunity to open its own retail sportsbook. Revenue from sports betting in Missouri will be taxed at 10%, with allowances for promotional deductions. This new development is expected to significantly boost the state’s economy.

Responsible Gaming in Missouri

Ensuring that sports betting is conducted responsibly is a top priority for Missouri. The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) is expected to implement several measures to promote responsible gaming and protect players. These guidelines should require operators to provide tools and resources to help players manage their betting habits, such as setting deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and access to counseling services.

In addition to these operator requirements, the MGC will likely allocate funds dedicated to preventing compulsive gambling. This fund would support various initiatives, including public awareness campaigns, research on gambling addiction, and the development of treatment programs. The state’s casinos and online sports platforms are also likely to be mandated to provide information and resources on responsible gaming, ensuring that players are well-informed about the risks and available support.

The MGC should continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these measures and make adjustments as needed to ensure that sports betting in Missouri remains a safe and enjoyable activity. By prioritizing responsible gaming, Missouri aims to create a balanced and sustainable sports betting environment that benefits both the state and its residents.

Missouri Sports Betting FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about sports betting in Missouri, providing clarity on critical aspects of the new legislation and what to expect shortly.

Is online sports betting legal in Missouri?

Yes, online sports betting is now legal in Missouri following the approval of Amendment 2, which includes provisions related to the state’s online gambling amendment. The Missouri Gaming Commission will regulate and license any incoming online sports betting platforms.

This new development opens up opportunities for both local and national operators to offer their services to Missouri residents by December 1, 2025.

When is online sports betting expected to launch in Missouri?

Online sports betting in Missouri is expected to launch by December 1, 2025 at the latest. While the legalization amendment takes effect on December 5, 2023, the launch will depend on establishing regulations and licensing by the Missouri Gaming Commission.

What will the legal betting age be in Missouri?

The legal betting age for participating in sports betting in Missouri will be 21 years old. This applies to online and retail sports betting, ensuring all participants meet the legal age requirement.

Which sportsbooks are expected to launch in Missouri?

Major sportsbooks such as FanDuel and DraftKings are expected to launch in Missouri. Other potential entrants include BetMGM, ESPN BET, and Caesars Sportsbook.

The Missouri Gaming Commission will license and regulate these operators.

Is Missouri also getting retail sports betting?

Yes, retail sports betting will be permitted in Missouri. The new legislation allows for a retail sports betting location near major professional sports team venues and in the state’s casinos.