In Wisconsin, state Rep. Tyler Vorpagel wants to stop the flow of sports betting dollars to Illinois, Iowa and Indiana—and possibly Minnesota and Michigan.
“It doesn’t make sense for Wisconsin if other states allow gambling and can capture Wisconsin dollars from people interested in gambling,” he said.
Changing the Wisconsin constitution’s ban on gambling would require passing a bill in the legislature for two consecutive sessions, followed by a statewide referendum. Another major hurdle would be negotiating with the state’s 11 tribal nations that operate 26 casinos.
Sports betting is not allowed at the state’s tribal casinos; the tribes would have to renegotiate their state gambling compacts. Observers say that probably will end the tribes’ payments to the state for the exclusive right to offer gambling. The Wisconsin State Journal said that amount was $53 million for fiscal 2017-2018.
Vorpagel said he believes legalizing gambling would result in economic benefits by allowing for more competition in the marketplace. “I think that if we would amend the constitution and it went to the voters, I personally think it would pass,” he said.
