Governor Tony Evers has signed legislation into law which legalizes online sports betting across Wisconsin, but still requires additional agreements to be formed with Tribal communities located in the state.
Gambling in Wisconsin is currently only allowed to take place while on Tribal lands under previously agreed upon exclusive contracts between the Tribes and state.
Retail sports bets can only be placed at certain Tribal casinos, while the infrastructure to manage online sports bets in Wisconsin will need to be located on Tribal lands.
The potential Wisconsin model would follow similarly to that of Florida, where the Seminole Tribe currently maintains exclusive rights to handle online sports betting conducted across the state.
“The real work begins today,” Evers said.
“Each of the 11 Tribes must now work diligently – and together – to shape the future of sports betting in Wisconsin. An approach that exacerbates long-standing inequalities among Tribal Nations is not good for Wisconsinites or Wisconsin. I will not entertain it as Governor.”
If Wisconsin lawmakers are able to come to terms with each of the state’s active Tribes, it would become the 33rd jurisdiction in the US to have legalized online sports betting.
On March 19, Evers confirmed he would not immediately decide on legislation to authorize online sports betting in the state, stating that further discussions with Tribal leaders were required before moving forward.
The bill’s progression follows ongoing legislative efforts to establish an online betting framework while maintaining Tribal oversight of gaming activities.
Despite Evers having signed the bill into law on April 9, many in gaming believe it could still be months, or perhaps even longer, until Wisconsin residents are able to place legal online sports wagers.
Brightstar Lottery was awarded a long-term contract to provide the Wisconsin Lottery with its fully integrated Omnia lottery solution on January 27, continuing a partnership which dates back over 30 years
