BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts Household lawmakers have frustrating accepted a bill to legalize sports betting in the state, but it’s fate in the point out Senate remains unsure.
The point out Home of Representatives voted 156-3 Thursday night to approve the measure, which would make it possible for the state’s licensed casinos and simulcast and stay horse racing facilities to provide sports bets. It would also position a 12.5% tax on revenues from in-particular person wagers and 15% on revenues from mobile bets and impose a variety of purchaser safety steps.
But Senate leaders haven’t committing to taking up sports activities betting as the legislature ways its August recess. A bill pending in that chamber also differs appreciably from the Property edition, banning faculty sports activities betting and imposing diverse charges on the field.
The Residence authorised sports activities wagering previous calendar year as aspect of a broader financial deal, but the Senate leaders declined to involve it in their model, arguing it was the improper time to be introducing an entirely new field to the point out.
Casino gambling has been lawful in Massachusetts for years and the point out has a few substantial gambling venues.
The U.S. Supreme Courtroom in 2018 dominated that banning athletics betting was unconstitutional. Some 30 states, together with neighboring Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York and Rhode Island, have given that legalized sporting activities wagering in some fashion.