MADISON – Governor Tony Evers signed Assembly Bill 601 into law Thursday, legalizing online sports betting in Wisconsin. Although, the legislation stipulates that all wagers must be conducted through servers physically located on Tribal lands.
A Complex Path Forward
While Governor Evers approved the bill, he emphasized that further negotiations are necessary to ensure equitable benefits for all eleven Tribal Nations in Wisconsin. He stated, “This legislation is the beginning of a conversation, not the end of one. The real work begins today.”
Governor Evers made it clear he will not support a plan that unfairly distributes revenue, stating he will not accept an approach that “fractures this opportunity into unequal pieces.” He expressed support for models that “address disparities rather than exacerbate them.”
Bipartisan Support and Tribal Endorsement
The bill received bipartisan support and was encouraged by the federally recognized tribes of Wisconsin, who sent Governor Evers a letter on Wednesday urging him to sign the legislation. Gary Clause, chairman of the Lac Courte Orielles Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe Tribe, believes the revenue will significantly benefit his community, providing resources for programs, education and job training.
Despite the support, some concerns remain. Opponents of the bill worry that increased access to sports betting could lead to more gambling addictions within the state. The Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling estimates that between 300,000 and 350,000 people in Wisconsin have a gambling problem, varying in severity.
National sports betting apps, including DraftKings and FanDuel, reportedly lobbied against the proposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will online sports betting be available in Wisconsin?
Online sports betting cannot begin until agreements are negotiated with the eleven Tribal Nations. This process is expected to take several months.
What does Governor Evers want to observe in these agreements?
Governor Evers wants to ensure that all eleven Tribal Nations benefit equitably from online sports betting and that no tribe is disadvantaged in revenue sharing.
Who supported the passage of this bill?
The bill had bipartisan support in the legislature and was supported by the federally recognized tribes of Wisconsin.
As Wisconsin prepares for the potential expansion of gaming opportunities, how might the state balance economic benefits with responsible gambling practices?