In Kansas, a bill to legalize sports betting in casinos will have its first hearing on January 29. The measure, SB 283, would allow each of the state’s four casino operators to receive two sports betting licenses—one for an on-site sportsbook, the other for online betting. The Kansas Lottery would regulate the activities. Revenue from retail sportsbooks would be taxed at 7.5 percent and online wagering revenue would be taxed at 10 percent. Application and license fees were not spelled out in the bill.
Bettors would be required to register in person, then they can create and fund accounts directly from the sportsbook apps.
Kansas Speedway, a NASCAR racetrack, and Children’s Mercy Park, home of Major League Soccer‘s Sporting KC, would be allowed to contract with casinos to operate mobile sports betting on the property.
Penn National Vice President of Public Affairs & Government Relations Jeff Morris said, “Overall, the bill shows collaboration among leadership, legislature and casino operators. The hope is to get Kansas sports betting legalized and operational by the 2020 football season.”
Observers said activity in neighboring states may urge Kansas officials to move quickly, as Colorado will launch sports betting on May 1 and Missouri and Nebraska legislatures are considering sports betting bills.
