Is Slow MA Sports Betting Rollout Because Of Mistake In Legislation?

There is still no timeline for when Massachusetts sportsbooks may launch. The bill passed by the legislature put no cap on the number of temporary licenses that can be handed out and there is a very low bar to qualify. Commissioner Eileen O'Brien explains that the topic took up a lot of time at Thursday's meeting.

Hill asked the big question: Is the slow Massachusetts sports betting rollout because of a mistake in legislation?

The public wants to know the timing of the sports betting rollout in MA. The public expects an answer soon.

There are only seven competitive licenses available for sports betting in MA. Any QGE that applies for a temporary license and pays the $1 million fee must be approved to launch.

There is a delay in sports betting in MA. The delay is due to a $1,000,00 initial licensing fee. A qualified gaming entity may apply for a temporary license for sports wagering operations.

The definition of "qualified gaming entity" in HB 5164 is different for online sportsbooks. The members of the legislative committee that negotiated the final MA sports betting bill did not respond to LSR's requests for comment.

Commissioners want answers on two questions from anyone attending next Thursday’s meeting.

Operators might have to shut down without a full license.