Washington State Poised to Expand Sports Betting to Include College Teams
For Washington sports fans, the landscape of legal betting is about to change. Currently, sports wagering in the state is limited to tribal casinos or through apps accessible only whereas physically present at a casino. Though, a bill recently passed by the Washington State Senate – Senate Bill 6137 – aims to allow betting on in-state college teams, bringing a significant shift to the state’s gaming regulations.
What Does the Bill Allow?
The core of Senate Bill 6137 focuses on permitting wagers on collegiate sporting events involving Washington-based universities, including popular teams like Gonzaga, the University of Washington, and Washington State University. This expansion would bring existing betting activity, currently occurring through “illicit or grey market avenues,” into a regulated tribal marketplace. As State Senator Adrian Cortes explained, this move is about bringing transparency and safety to an already existing practice.
Protecting Student Athletes: A Key Concern
While expanding betting options, the bill includes a crucial provision: wagers on individual athlete performance will be prohibited. This decision stems from concerns about potential harassment and undue pressure on student-athletes. The aim is to shield them from the negative consequences that can arise when betting focuses on individual players. Despite this safeguard, some lawmakers, like Jesse Salomon, remain concerned about the overall pressure the bill could place on young athletes.
The Path Forward: From Senate to House
The bill’s journey isn’t over yet. Having passed the Senate with a 41-8 vote, it now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. If approved by the House, the legislation will travel into effect 90 days after the legislature adjourns in mid-March. This timing means the new rules won’t be in place for the upcoming NCAA basketball tournament, often a peak season for sports betting.
Why This Matters: The Broader Trend of College Sports Betting
Washington State’s move is part of a growing national trend. More states are recognizing the potential revenue and regulatory benefits of legalizing college sports betting. Tribal casinos are often central to these expansions, leveraging their existing infrastructure and regulatory compliance. This approach allows states to capture revenue that would otherwise flow to unregulated offshore or illegal markets.
Potential Economic Impact for Tribal Casinos
Allowing bets on in-state college teams is expected to boost revenue for Washington’s tribal casinos. Supporters argue it will help smaller and rural tribes maintain a competitive edge in the sports betting market. By offering a wider range of betting options, tribal casinos can attract more customers and increase their overall economic impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will I be able to bet on Washington college teams?
- If the bill passes the House, it will go into effect 90 days after the legislature adjourns in mid-March.
- Can I bet on individual players?
- No, the bill specifically prohibits bets on the performance of individual student-athletes.
- Where can I place these bets?
- Bets will only be allowed at tribal casinos within Washington State.
What are your thoughts on the potential changes to sports betting in Washington? Share your opinions in the comments below!
Explore more about the evolving landscape of sports betting here.
