Kentucky Lawmakers Introduce Sportsbetting Bill

Last week a Kentucky politician introduced a bill that would legalize sportsbetting within the state of Kentucky, allowing online poker and fantasy sports as well.

The bill, which is formally known as House Bill 175, was introduced by Representative Adam Koenig, and would legalize sportsbetting, online poker, and daily fantasy sports betting within state borders. The bill would cover both pro and collegiate sports, but wouldn't allow wagers to be placed on teams that are based in the Bluegrass State.

Koenig was keen to introduce the measure in light of the Supreme Court's decision last year to throw out the sportsbetting ban that was in place from 1992 until 2018. Since that time, various states have moved to legalize and introduce the activity, including Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

The bill would require sportsbetting to be regulated by the Horse Racing Commission, while online poker would be overseen by the state lottery, and DFS to be regulated by the Public Protection Cabinet.

Commenting about the bill Koenig said, "In light of last year's Supreme Court decision, it is time that we take the proactive step of providing adults the freedom to legally engage in sports betting. Kentucky has a chance to be ahead of the curve on this issue, while also potentially capitalizing on much-needed revenue gains without raising taxes."

"By no means do I expect this legislation to produce a massive windfall of revenue into the state coffers that will solve all of our financial problems. But with numerous citizens already engaging in betting practices, it is time for the Commonwealth to reap some of that revenue, while also allowing adults the freedom to make their own decisions."