U.S. Gambling Expansion Faces Stalemate in 2024, Future Remains Uncertain

United States hit an unprecedented milestone in 2024, marking the first year since the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018 that no state expanded legal gambling. With 2025 approaching, legislative efforts are reigniting in states where wagering remains prohibited, offering a glimpse of potential breakthroughs.

Alabama: A Missed Opportunity for Comprehensive Legalization

Alabama lawmakers made an ambitious attempt in 2024 to legalize lottery games, casino gaming, and sports betting in one broad stroke. Despite these efforts, the legislative session ended without any proposals ing. The state, which currently only permits limited gambling forms like electronic bingo on tribal land and pari-mutuel horse racing, remains one of five U.S. states without a state lottery.

Anthony Daniels, the Democratic House Minority Leader, has called for the Senate to take the lead in future discussions. Experts suggest that Alabama may have a better chance of success by addressing gambling expansion incrementally, a tactic proven effective in other states. Legislative sessions for 2025 will run from February 4 to May 15, though no bills have been pre-filed as of yet.

California: Long Road to Voter Decision

California continues to grapple with disagreements over sports betting, largely driven by its tribal governments, which hold exclusive gaming rights. The state’s tribes and commercial operators failed to align during the historic ballot initiative defeat in 2024, leaving California without a path forward in the near term. Discussions are underway to bridge differences within Indian Country. If successful, a sports betting initiative might reach voters as early as 2026. For now, there is little chance of progress in 2025.

Georgia: Stalled by Political Deadlock

Despite its size and potential for gambling revenue, Georgia remains entrenched in a political stalemate over sports betting legalization. Although bipartisan agreements were achieved in 2021, broader legislative issues have prevented significant movement. Senator Brandon Beach, a prominent advocate, highlighted the economic losses caused by the absence of legal sports betting in a December op-ed. Georgia’s next legislative session runs from January 13 to April 3, though no bills have been filed as of mid-December.

Minnesota: A Framework for Tribal Agreement

Efforts to legalize sports betting in Minnesota have historically been hindered by resistance from tribal stakeholders. However, recent developments suggest progress. Andy Platto, executive director of the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association, announced in October 2024 that stakeholders have reached an agreement framework. Senator Matt Klein expressed optimism about introducing a bill early in 2025, despite continued opposition from some legislators and social groups.

Texas: The Power Struggle Continues

Texas remains a focal point for gambling expansion efforts, fueled by significant lobbying investments. Despite strong interest from industry giants, progress is unlikely while Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick opposes any form of legalization. Senator Carol Alvarado’s proposed constitutional amendment addressing casinos and sports betting offers limited detail, and its success depends on securing broader Republican . The state’s 2025 legislative session, running from January 14 to June 2, could serve as a pivotal period for advancing discussions.

South Carolina and Other Key States

South Carolina lawmakers have introduced two gambling bills, including one seeking voter approval through a constitutional amendment. Both proposals reflect the growing urgency to modernize gaming laws as neighboring states reaped the financial benefits of legalization. Elsewhere, Oklahoma faces similar tribal-driven obstacles, while Hawaii and Idaho remain firmly opposed to gambling expansion.

As 2025 begins, the fate of gambling expansion in these ten states remains uncertain, but renewed efforts and potential agreements could reshape the industry landscape.

Source:

”Try, try again: 11 US states don’t have legal wagering; at least four are contenders in 2025”, igamingbusiness.com, December 31, 2024.