Revised Sports Betting Legislation Introduced in Rhode Island

Democratic Party legislators have introduced a new sports betting legislation in Rhode Island that would make it much easier for bettors to place mobile sports betting wagers.

State’s House of Representatives Nicholas Mattiello and Marvin Abney have introduced this move as RI faces a massive budget deficit. This will, supposedly, be followed by the introduction of a companion proposal from the State Senate leader, Dominick Ruggerio.

Saving Plan For the Budget

This should bring in more revenue to Rhode Island state budget…

…and would change the current rule under which the citizens of this state must in person at Twin River casino locations in order to place sports bets.

This bill would also amend the law as it would state that the server checking if the player is located physically in Rhode Island will do that at the time in which the bet is placed.

By removing the in-person registration requirement, more Rhode Islanders would be incentivized to try out sports betting and the official sports betting apps. This would especially come in handy when most are limiting their outdoor activities and as sports leagues are preparing to resume.

Necessary in Times of Social Distancing

In a t statement, Mattiello and Ruggerios stated:

“Especially during these times of social distancing, enabling people to online for sports gaming provides an added convenience that will also enhance revenue for the people of our state. many team sports ready to resume play shortly, this will provide a safe entertainment option for Rhode Islanders to participate in sports gaming from their homes.”

At the same time, Republican activist Daniel Harrop is asking for a legal challenge over the sports betting constitutionality. He argues that sports betting could only be authorized by voters under the state constitution.

Superior Court judge ruled against him in June.

Source:

“Top RI lawmakers seek to end in-person registration for mobile sports betting”, wpri.com, July 8th 2020