Is online sports betting finally coming to Mississippi?

Mississippi House Bill 1302 has passed through the House Gaming Committee, setting up a full vote. 

The proposal comes one year after an online sports betting bill passed the Mississippi House but failed in the Senate. It failed primarily because of concern over the impact on Hawaii’s residents. Fears over the devastating effects of gambling addiction have led to opposition.

Aside from some Hawaiann lawmakers, the Honolulu Police have also spoken against HB 1302. They warn of the crime that comes with gambling, including fraud, abuse, and suicide. Hawaii’s remote location means that police and regulators would have less support than markets on the main continent, presenting a different challenge.

Proponents of HB 1302 believe it has enough regulations to help prevent the problem from spiking. They point out that many residents are already using offshore sportsbooks to wager, meaning the problem already exists. Legalizing the industry would give the state tools to handle the situation and keep bettors safer.

Online Casino Bill Also Being Considered

As HB 1302 works through the Mississippi House, the Senate is considering a bill to legalize online casinos. The bill has some drastic regulations to help gain support, but experts believe it is likely still a few years away from becoming law.

The casino and sports betting bills may not pass, but they will give us a clear picture of where the Mississippi legislature stands on gambling. The state is one of the most conservative in the country but also one of the poorest and least educated. Gambling tax revenue can address the latter, which may eventually overcome the former.