Vote Against California Sports Betting A ‘Missed Opportunity,’ MLB Official Says
Vote against California sports betting is a missed opportunity, MLB official says. Leonardo Villalobos participated in a panel discussion on sports gambling at the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas.
Professional sports leagues are working with the American Gaming Association to expand sports betting in regulated markets. It is illegal in California, Texas and Florida. The NFL feels more comfortable when sports gambling occurs in a regulated market.
On Nov. 8, California voters will decide on two ballot questions to legalize sports betting in the state. University of California, Berkeley survey suggests both items will be rejected. Proposition 26 would legalize in-person wagering at 66 tribal casinos and four horse tracks. Prop 27 would allow mobile apps for sports gambling. Major League Baseball supports both propositions.
The professional leagues support legal sports betting. MLB will allow teams to place corporate patches on uniforms and batting helmets starting in 2023. The NFL prohibits its employees from participating in any form of gambling.
