Georgia's Plan to Legalize Betting on Mobile Sports

The Senate Study Committee on Making Georgia a Top Tourism Destination has included a proposal to authorize mobile sports betting in its final report. This addition comes as part of ongoing discussions about the states gaming regulations.

The recommendation was added shortly before the reports release and was not addressed in the committee's last public session. Lawmakers are examining whether revenue from sports wagering could help fund tourism projects and major events.

While broader gambling reforms face resistance, changes to tourism taxes and increased state investment remain under consideration. Supporters pointed to examples like North Carolina, where sports betting revenue helps attract large-scale events, suggesting a similar approach could benefit Georgias tourism sector.

Committee leaders framed the proposal as one of several ideas to inform future legislative deliberations rather than a confirmed policy plan. Officials have repeatedly highlighted the economic value of tourism, noting that Georgia hosted over 174 million visitors last year, generating an estimated $45.2 billion in spending.

State lawmakers continue to review potential gaming reforms as a House committee evaluates the legalization of wagering. Past initiatives have focused on sports betting exclusively, excluding casinos, and have encountered opposition from religious and anti-gambling groups.

Legislative Uncertainty After Key Resignation

Georgias efforts to implement a regulated sports betting system were impacted when Rep. Marcus Wiedower resigned in October. Wiedower had been a primary advocate, introducing two bills aimed at legalizing online betting under the Georgia Lotterys oversight. One outlined tax rates and licensing rules, while the other proposed a statewide referendum in 2026. Both excluded casinos, kiosks, and horse racing, intending to create a limited online-only market.

With his departure, remaining sponsors must continue the stalled efforts, facing disagreements over tax allocation and potential constitutional requirements. Currently, Georgia law restricts gambling unless voter approval or legislative adjustments are made to lottery-managed gaming.

Lessons From Missouris Sports Betting Market

Missouris launch of sports betting offers insights for Georgia policymakers. Initial data showed more than 216,000 active sportsbook accounts, reducing the need for residents to travel to neighboring states like Kansas and Illinois to place bets. Analysts expect in-state betting to become the preferred option for local players.

When Missouri legalized sports betting in November 2024, projected annual tax revenue was $28 million. Although large cross-border inflows were not expected, Illinois tax changes could influence regional betting patterns. Experts also noted that higher taxes per wager may affect sportsbook profits and the odds offered to bettors, potentially altering interstate betting dynamics.

Author: Natalie Monroe