The year 2024 promises to be an action-packed period for sports enthusiasts in the United States. Key events to mark on your calendar include Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas, the World Series of baseball, and the NBA Finals, offering a thrilling trifecta for fans of major American sports.
Additionally, prestigious events like the Kentucky Derby and the Breeders’ Cupwill drive horse racing aficionados. Golf enthusiasts, meanwhile, can look forward to the Masters and the US Open.
Moreover, 2024 is set to host many international sporting events. The Summer Olympics in Paris will commence on July 26th, creating a global spectacle. Soccer fans will also be treated to the Africa Cup of Nations in January, the Copa America in June, and Euro 2024 from June 14th to July 14th.
The year’s sports calendar is diverse, featuring events ranging from the NHL Winter Classic in Seattle to the NBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis and the UFC 300 in Las Vegas.
The Legal Landscape of Sports Betting in the US
Sports betting has seen a widespread embrace across several U.S. states. Fans in states such as Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wyoming can legally place online sports bets.
The landscape is continually changing, with North Carolina now legalizing sports betting both online and at retail locations. However, online sports betting is not yet operational in North Carolina, and bettors in the state will have to wait until at least Jan. 8, 2024, to launch online sportsbooks.
Each state stands at a different stage in the legalization process. The categorization ranges from complete legalization to pending legalization and states where it’s not currently legal. The diversity in regulations reflects the complex American federalism, where each state tailors its approach to sports betting.
Recent Developments in State Legalizations
The sports betting landscape in the United States has witnessed remarkable transformations recently. With the passage of NC House Bill 347, championed by Rep. Jason Saine and signed into law by Governor Roy Cooper, online and mobile sports betting has been legalized in North Carolina.
The move brings the total to 38 states, along with Washington D.C., where online sports betting is legal as of 2024, an increase from 32 states in 2021. This trend underscores the expanding acceptance and legalization of sports betting nationwide, reflecting a dynamic shift in the nation’s approach to sports wagering.
Latest States to Legalize
Kentucky
Kentucky marked a significant development in sports betting legislation when it legalized retail and online sports betting. The state’s lawmakers passed the bill on March 30, 2023, and Governor Andy Beshear signed it into law, making Kentucky the 37th state to legalize sports betting.
Retail sports betting commenced on September 7, 2023, followed by the launch of online sports betting on September 28, 2023.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts commenced its online sports betting operations on March 10, 2023. The launch involved seven online sports betting operators, kickstarting the Commonwealth’s foray into the online betting landscape.
Maine
In late 2022, Maine Governor Janet Mills signed a sports betting bill into law, marking the state’s entry into the legalized sports betting sector.
The state has taken significant strides to establish its betting market, making sports betting available for its residents.
Maryland
Maryland has also joined the ranks of states with legalized sports betting. The state’s online sports betting commenced on November 23, 2022, following Maryland voters’ approval of Question 2 in the November 2020 US Election. This move allowed sports betting at the state’s existing casinos.
Ohio
Ohio launched its sports betting market at midnight on January 1, 2023. This followed the approval of their sports betting bill on December 8, 2022, adding Ohio to the list of states where sports betting is legal.
North Carolina’s Legislative Progress and Projections for Sports Betting in 2024
Significant legislative efforts have marked North Carolina’s journey toward legalizing North Carolina sports betting apps. HB 347, a sports betting bill filed by Rep. Jason Saine, was introduced in the North Carolina General Assembly on March 13, 2023. After a series of approvals and amendments between the Senate and House, Governor Roy Cooper signed it into law on June 14, 2023.
The latest rules allow for up to 11 online sportsbooks, correlating with the number of professional sports organizations in the state. By January 2024, seven online sportsbooks had applied for licenses, with some already securing deals with sports teams.
Each license incurs a $1 million fee for five years and an 18% tax. Projections by Legal Sports Report (LSR) suggest that North Carolina online sportsbooks could handle $6.8 billion in bets by their second year, potentially generating $610.7 million in revenue for the state.
This advancement not only signifies a major shift in North Carolina’s gaming landscape but also aligns with a broader national trend recognizing the economic and entertainment value of legalized sports betting. The state emphasizes creating a robust regulatory framework to ensure a secure and responsible betting environment.
Vermont’s Online Sports Betting Debut in 2024
Vermont is gearing up for the launch of its online sports betting, which is expected to go live on January 11, 2024. The development follows the signing of Bill H127 into law by Governor Phil Scott on June 14, 2023, which officially legalized online sports betting in the state. Unlike other states, Vermont has opted for an online-only approach, keeping retail betting illegal.
As the state prepares for this new venture, Vermonters look forward to placing online bets on their favorite sports teams and players in the new year. The Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery oversees this new industry, indicating a significant step forward in the state’s gaming landscape.
Understanding the Sports Betting Sphere
For those new to sports betting, navigating this landscape might seem daunting. However, understanding the basics of placing bets, the odds system and the legalities in your state is a good starting point.
It’s essential to be aware of the sports betting regulations specific to your state, as these can vary significantly regarding online access, betting limits, and available platforms.
Summary
The year 2024 stands out as an exciting time for sports fans and bettors. With the variety of sporting events and the expanding accessibility of legal sports betting across the United States, it promises entertainment and opportunities for enthusiasts.
As the industry continues to evolve, staying informed about your state’s latest developments and legalities is key to making the most out of your sports betting experience.