Door Closes On Sports Betting In Georgia For 2025 – iGaming Post
The potential legalization of sports betting in Georgia has faced a significant setback as the state’s General Assembly adjourned without bringing the measure to a vote. This turn of events is particularly disheartening for advocates seeking to introduce regulated sports wagering to the Peach State.
As the legislative deadline loomed on March 6, 2025, the prospects for legal sports betting in Georgia dwindled. Speaker of the House Jon Burns concluded the session shortly before the 11:59 PM cutoff on crossover day, with notable absences of votes on bills crucial for legalizing sports betting, including both a constitutional amendment and an operational framework.
This development follows a week filled with vigorous legislative activity, characterized by late-night sessions and rapid discussions. The failure to advance these proposals extinguishes any immediate hopes for introducing legal sports betting in Georgia during the 2025 session. This outcome stands in stark contrast to the national landscape, which has seen a wave of sports betting legalization following the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act nearly seven years ago.
Contrasting State Developments in Sports Betting Legislation
While Georgia’s efforts stalled, other states have made significant strides in sports betting legislation. For example, Hawaii’s legislature recently passed a digital-only sports betting bill, while Mississippi’s House approved measures to expand its existing retail sports betting framework to encompass online wagering. These progressive developments nationwide make Georgia’s inertia particularly notable, reinforcing the urgency for legislative change in the state.
Navigating the Legislative Landscape: Georgia’s Sports Betting Bills
The journey toward the legalization of sports betting in Georgia hinged on two pivotal pieces of legislation: HB 686 and HR 450. These bills represented the state’s latest attempt to align with numerous states that have embraced legal sports wagering.
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HB 686: The Framework Bill
- This legislation detailed the structural and operational aspects of sports betting in Georgia. It was set for a potential floor vote following approval by the rules committee during its third meeting on March 6. Throughout its legislative journey, HB 686 underwent considerable scrutiny and various amendments. Notably, during its passage through the higher education committee, the proposed tax rate was revised from 20% to 24%, which could have significant impacts on both prospective operators and state revenue.
- HR 450: The Constitutional Amendment
- In contrast, HR 450 sought to give Georgia residents a voice in the legalization of sports betting by placing a referendum on the November 2026 ballot. This measure would allow voters to decide whether to approve this new facet of gambling in the state. Utilizing a constitutional amendment as a method for seeking voter approval is a strategic approach that has appeared frequently in states considering gambling expansion.
The Broader Implications of Inaction
The inability to pass legislation on sports betting underscores a pivotal moment in Georgia’s gambling landscape. As states across the U.S. capitalize on the opportunities presented by legalized sports betting—driving increased tax revenues and bolstering local economies—Georgia risks lagging behind. For those in the gambling industry and its allied sectors, fostering a proactive dialogue about the benefits and regulations surrounding sports betting remains critical.
In conclusion, while the recent legislative session in Georgia has stymied the immediate prospects of legal sports betting, the broader national trends indicate that the conversation around such measures is more critical than ever. As industry leaders and stakeholders continue to advocate for responsible gambling practices and regulatory frameworks, Georgia may yet find a path toward the legalization of sports betting in future sessions.
