Sports Betting in the U.S.: Around the Horn

As usual, there was a lot of sports betting news in America this week. Among the hot topics was the state of Arkansas now considering the legalization of sports betting, Indiana hit a landmark in sports betting handle, Nebraska confirms the introduction of retail casino gambling, and DraftKings goes live in Connecticut.

Arkansas Legislature is Considering Rule Change to Allow Sports Betting

In the South, it's hard not to notice how successful sports betting has been in states like Louisiana and Tennessee. The amount of tax revenue those states will start raking in has certainly caught the eye of the Arkansas Legislature. The Arkansas Racing Commission is now considering a rule change that would legalize mobile sports betting for its residence.

Before too much excitement is stirred up, it's noteworthy that the process is only in draft status. If and when a bill is finalized, a formal vote would need to be taken by the Commission to be followed by a 30-day public comment period. From there, the State legislature would consider the matter. Experts are predicting this all could take place by early next year.

Indiana Hits Sports Betting Handle Landmark

Since its inception, sports betting has been very popular in Indiana. The state still ranks in the top 5 or 6 for sports betting handle on a monthly basis.

With much credit going to the start of the NFL, NCAA FB, and NBA seasons, the last couple of months of sports betting handle has pushed Indiana over the $5 billion mark. That makes the state the fifth state to hit that mark.

It's noteworthy that the state took in $461.1 million in October sports bets, which eclipsed the short-lived record of $355.4 million reported in September.

Nebraska Looking at Opening Retain Casinos

The state of Nebraska is surrounded by states that allow retail casino gambling. The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission has finally released a plan that will allow for the licensing of six retail casinos throughout the state.

The licensing fee for each property will be $1 million for 20 years. This would appear to be a big step in the direction of eventually allowing residents to legally wager on sports via mobile apps and retail sportsbooks. Construction on casinos could start at some point in early 2022.

DraftKings Launches at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut

After the launch of mobile betting in Connecticut by DraftKings, Fanduel, and Rush Street Interactive (PlaySugarHouse) in October, it was just a matter of time before retail sportsbooks would be opening.

DraftKings has announced a soft launch of its retail sportsbook in the Foxwoods Resort Casino. The grand opening of the sportsbook is scheduled for December 8, 2021, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The future retail competition will be coming as Fanduel looks to open their Mohegan Sun Casino sportsbook in the very near future. Starting next year, the Connecticut Lottery has plans to open as many as 15 retail sportsbooks throughout the state with BetRivers taking the action.