Is Sports Betting Legal in Missouri? Latest News & Updates
Author:
Zach
Published:
Sep 18, 2024
,
02:39 p.m.
ET
Sports betting has seen rapid legalization across the United States, but Missouri has yet to embrace it. Despite the growth and popularity of sports betting in nearby states like Kansas, Illinois and Iowa, Missouri's efforts to legalize it remain unresolved while it becomes an increasingly hot-button topic. The 2024 legislative session has closed without passing any bills, but the future holds potential changes, as a proposed ballot measure could bring sports betting to Missouri in the near future.
Let’s dive into the current status of sports betting in Missouri, what legal gambling options are available and the risks associated with betting.
Latest news on sports betting legislation in Missouri
Missouri has been grappling with the issue of sports betting legalization for several years. In 2024, multiple bills aimed at allowing legal sports betting were introduced in the state legislature, but they failed to gain approval. These bills, including SB 852 and HB 2331, would have allowed both online and in-person sports betting in Missouri, with tax rates ranging from 10% to 12%. Despite widespread support from Missouri’s professional sports teams and casinos, political hurdles have stalled progress.
In November 2024, a pivotal ballot measure will allow Missouri voters to decide whether sports betting should be legalized. If approved, legal sportsbooks could launch as early as 2025, giving Missourians the opportunity to place wagers on their favorite teams. However, this remains a hotly debated issue, with significant opposition from groups like Missourians Against the Deceptive Online Gambling Amendment (MADOGA), which is backed by casino operators who fear online betting could erode their market share.
When could sports betting become legal in Missouri?
If the November 2024 ballot measure is successful, Missouri could see legal sports betting as early as 2025. The measure requires a majority vote for approval, after which the Missouri Gaming Commission would begin drafting regulations to govern the industry.
Given the widespread popularity of sports betting in neighboring states, many Missourians are eager for the opportunity to participate. Kansas, for example, legalized sports betting in 2022, and many residents of Missouri already cross state lines to place bets. Legalization in Missouri could capture this revenue and provide new funding for public education, as the proposed legislation includes a 10% tax on sports betting revenue.
Legal gambling options today in Missouri
Although sports betting remains illegal, there are several legal gambling options in Missouri:
Casinos: Missouri has 13 commercial casinos, mostly located along rivers. These casinos offer a variety of gambling options, including slot machines, table games and poker.
Lottery: The Missouri Lottery offers a wide range of games, including scratch-offs, daily drawings and multi-state lotteries like Powerball and Mega Millions. Proceeds from the lottery support public education.
Horse Racing: While horse racing is legal, there are no active race tracks in Missouri. Simulcast betting on races in other states is available at certain casinos.
Charitable Gaming: Bingo and raffles are legal in Missouri, as long as the proceeds benefit charitable organizations.
While these options provide entertainment and potential financial gains, they also carry risks, especially when it comes to addiction.
Dangers of offshore sportsbooks in Missouri
Without legal sports betting, many Missouri residents turn to offshore sportsbooks. These sites operate outside U.S. jurisdiction and are not subject to Missouri’s consumer protection laws. While they may seem convenient, offshore sportsbooks come with several dangers:
Lack of Regulation: Offshore sportsbooks are not regulated by U.S. authorities, meaning they lack the safeguards that protect bettors in states with legalized sports betting. This can lead to issues with unfair odds, refusal to pay out winnings and account fraud.
Security Risks: Personal information, including financial details, is at higher risk when using offshore platforms. Data breaches and identity theft are common concerns.
No Legal Recourse: If an offshore sportsbook refuses to honor a bet or payout, there is little to no legal recourse.
Because of these risks, experts recommend waiting for legal options to become available or exploring legal gambling activities already established in Missouri.
Gambling addiction treatment in Missouri
With the growing popularity of gambling, including the potential expansion into sports betting, there’s an increased risk of gambling addiction. The ease of access to online platforms, especially through mobile apps, can exacerbate this issue, making it more challenging for individuals to recognize and control problematic behaviors.
For Missourians struggling with gambling addiction, help is now available through Birches Health. The Birches team of licensed clinicians offers specialized telehealth treatment for those impacted by gambling addiction and related behavioral health problems. Birches provides personalized virtual care, including individual therapy, group counseling and family support, designed to help individuals regain control of their lives.
Multiple treatment options are available, and many insurance plans cover the cost - either mostly or fully - making it affordable for most individuals and families seeking help. The Birches Health services can be accessed in different ways:
Birches Health is dedicated to helping individuals in Missouri overcome addiction through evidence-based treatment and compassionate care. You can get in touch with us by calling 833-483-3838 or emailing hello@bircheshealth.com. You can also visit the Missouri Gambling Addiction page for more information.
