Several tavern owners in the District of Columbia are hoping that sports betting will be legalized in Washington by the D.C. Lottery so they can offer it to their customers.
Geoff Dawson, who owns five bars in the District, told the Washington Business Journal he would seek a license once he understands how brick-and-mortar facilities will be able to offer the wagers.
Fritz Brogan, who owns the Mission Navy Yard, commented, “It would stupid for us for not to look into this,” Brogan said. “But I hope the D.C. Lottery asks for feedback from local business.”
Last week the D.C. Council voted 11-2 to authorized a $250,000 application fee for five-year sports wagering licenses for the following locations: Capital One Arena, Audi Field, Nationals Park and the St. Elizabeth’s East Entertainment and Sports Arena.
Physical operations a least two blocks from those facilities would have to pay $50,000 for a five year license and $50,000 for a renewal. A third kind of license, for bars and restaurants, will cost $5,000 for two years and $5,000 for a renewal.
The council’s Committee on Finance and Revenue issued a report singling out bars and restaurants as the most natural places for sports betting kiosks.
