The Mississippi Legislature is currently facing a challenging task of passing an online sports betting bill. While there is a push for online sports betting, it seems that any mention of online casino gambling may be avoided.
The Mobile-Online Sports Betting Task Force (MOSBTF) in Mississippi has been conducting hearings and gathering input to provide recommendations to the state Legislature. However, concerns from physical gaming operators have raised doubts about the inclusion of online casino language in any proposed legislation.
The task force is responsible for studying and evaluating all aspects related to online sports betting within the state. Composed of experts and stakeholders, the group has been holding public hearings to gather insights and input from various parties involved in the industry. Their findings and recommendations are expected to be delivered to the state Legislature by December 15.
During the hearings, concerns were expressed by physical gaming operators regarding the potential impact of online sports betting on their businesses. Chris Hopwood, the director of sportsbook operations for Choctaw Resort Development Enterprises, highlighted the threat posed by corporate giants like DraftKings and FanDuel. He emphasized that these companies prioritize their own profits over the interests of Mississippi, lacking a genuine connection with the people.
Despite the push for online sports betting, the proposed legislation is expected to steer clear of any references to online casino gambling. Representative Casey Eure, co-chair of the MOSBTF, has stated that his priority is to protect the interests of brick-and-mortar casinos. The bill he plans to introduce will focus solely on online sports betting and address concerns raised by physical casino operators about potential encroachment from online gaming sites.
Mississippi’s approach to iGaming aligns with other states that have adopted a cautious stance. While more than 25 states have legalized some form of mobile sports betting, only seven have done the same for iGaming. The state Legislature in Mississippi is likely to follow this trend and focus on online sports betting, leaving the possibility of iGaming legalization for future consideration.
Apart from the concerns surrounding online casino language, the task force and legislators still need to address several other issues related to online sports betting. These issues include deciding whether to allow certain player props, determining an appropriate tax rate and establishing the relationship between mobile bookmakers and brick-and-mortar casinos. The task force has also considered the possibility of a referendum to gauge public opinion on expanding wagering options.
While there is no statewide mobile sports betting in Mississippi, the state does allow in-person wagering at brick-and-mortar casinos. However, BetMGM is available on the grounds of the Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica, and two other facilities permit mobile wagering while on the property. The Mississippi Gaming Commission reported the presence of 367 sports betting kiosks in the state, with plans to introduce new terminals at the Golden Nugget Casino Biloxi.
In addition to commercially operated casinos, Mississippi is home to three tribal-owned casinos, two of which already offer sports betting. The third casino has plans to launch its sportsbook features in the near future. The task force has taken into account concerns raised by brick-and-mortar casino operators, including potential erosion of revenues from hotels and hospitality services, as well as the future possibility of iGaming legalization.
