The Washington State Gambling Commission has approved amended tribal gaming compacts that will allow the state’s 15 Native American tribes to offer legal sports betting services at their casinos. The amended compacts have now been sent to the desk of Governor Jay Inslee for his approval.
After a review of the amendments, the Commission voted by 7-0 to approve the amendments with two commissioners excused from the vote. The Commission’s review and approval is the latest step in a lengthy legalization process that saw the initial legislation HB 2638 approved and signed into law by the Governor in March of 2020.
Washington Gambling Commission Approves Sports Betting at Tribal Casinos — Industry Set for Fall Launch.According to Commission chair Bud Sizemore there are considerable changes to the compacts:
Washington Gambling Commission Approves Sports Betting at Tribal Casinos — Industry Set for Fall Launch“We have 15 sports wagering amendments going to the governor’s office.”
The state’s various tribes have been quite vocal in their support for the new compacts and have urged the Governor to approve the amendments as soon as possible as the additional revenue generated would further assist the many social programs that help the tribes’ people.
Jaison Elkins, chairman of the Muckleshoot Tribe said:
Washington Gambling Commission Approves Sports Betting at Tribal Casinos — Industry Set for Fall Launch Washington Gambling Commission Approves Sports Betting at Tribal Casinos — Industry Set for Fall Launch“The effects of poverty, neglect and disease are not easily overcome. We use every dollar from gaming.”
The new legislation allows gambling on all major league professional sports both in the US and abroad. Gamblers can also bet on events such as the Olympic Games and other international events like the FIFA World Cup while betting on college sports will also be allowed but on in-state schools. The legislation also states that no mobile sports wagering options will be available outside casino properties.
Image credit: Gage Skidmore / CC BY-SA 2.0
Ciaran has been working within the Gambling Industry as a deep analyst since 2019. His deep knowledge and understanding of all the gambling regulations, and processes makes him a true asset, and an always valuable point of view for Gambling Industry News, allowing us to cover every topics from a brand new perspective.