Lawmakers in Mississippi are currently debating the future of online sports betting and sweepstakes casinos in the state. A bill known as Senate Bill 2510, introduced by Sen. Joey Fillingane, passed the Senate with unanimous support. This bill aims to increase penalties for illegal online gambling and ban online sweepstakes casinos. However, discussions are ongoing as the bill moves to a conference committee. The bill does not define sweepstakes casinos but labels them as unlicensed operators, with violators facing felony charges.
While lawmakers seem to agree on the future of sweepstakes casinos, online sports betting discussions are hitting roadblocks. The bill in question would also legalize mobile sports betting in the state, but it is facing challenges in the Senate. Support for legalizing online sports betting is based on the high demand for it in Mississippi, with nearly 9 million attempts to access legal mobile sports betting sites since the NFL season began. However, opponents are concerned about the impact on smaller casinos and potential addiction issues among gamblers.
The House Gaming Committee and Senate committee have been at odds over the bill, causing frustration among lawmakers as they struggle to reach an agreement. Despite the growing demand for online sports betting in the state, progress towards legalization will require consensus among lawmakers. The future of online sports betting and sweepstakes casinos in Mississippi remains uncertain as discussions continue.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.