Sportsbetting legalization and regulation within the state of Kansas has one last hurdle before it becomes a reality, as a bill that would legalize the activity passed through the State House with a 73-49 margin.
The bill is formally known as Senate Bill 84 and would allow state-owned casinos to operate sportsbooks inside, with up to three online books being allowed per land casino. These physical books would be located in Kansas City, Mulvane, Dodge City, and Pittsburg. There is also a provision that would allow tribal gaming operators to negotiate compacts with the state to operate their own sportsbooks.
Overseeing the activity would be the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, who currently oversees other betting within the Sunflower State.
Although the bill passed through the House and Senate, there's no certainty that it will be signed into law. Governor Laura Kelly hasn't indicated that she'll sign the bill, and there are concerns about low tax rates (10% of GGR), and 80% of taxes generated going toward luring a professional sports team to the state.
Casino Listings News is following this story and will update readers as we learn more.