Will Minnesota Legalize Sports Betting This Year? House Dispute Raises Concerns

MINNEAPOLIS — Supporters of sports betting believe it may finally pass in Minnesota this session, but there’s a significant hurdle to overcome.

That hurdle is the current chaos and a boycott in the Minnesota Legislature, making it tough to get anything accomplished.

The American Gaming Association estimates that Americans will wager around $23 billion on this year’s Super Bowl. Unfortunately, none of that will be legal in Minnesota.

Sports betting has been legalized in 38 states and the District of Columbia. One of the main advocates for a sports betting bill in Minnesota is Jeremy Miller, the Republican Senate co-President.

Miller is optimistic, stating, “I really do believe this is the year a sports betting bill could pass.” He estimates that his proposal could generate about $80 million in tax revenue.

According to Miller’s plan, 50% of the revenue would support charitable gambling like pull tabs, 25% would attract major events to Minnesota, and 20% would enhance the horse racing industry.

DFL Senator Matt Klein is also championing a sports betting bill, which aligns closely with Miller’s. Both bills would grant sports gambling licenses to Minnesota’s 11 Native American tribes. These tribes have exclusive gaming rights, established in a 1991 agreement with the state.

“Each tribe can get one license now. If they want to partner with an online platform like DraftKings, they can do that,” Klein explained.

However, there are opponents from both parties. They argue that legalizing sports betting might lead to addiction and even an increase in crime. The larger issue is the ongoing power struggle in the Minnesota House, which could prevent any legislation from passing.

“I hope they can sort this out to get the work done for the people of Minnesota,” Miller said.

The DFL boycott in the House has now stretched into its fourth week. Despite the stalemate, both sides continue to receive paychecks with no signs of a resolution in sight.

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Sports Betting, Minnesota Legislature