Since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in mid-May to strike down a federal ban that stopped the majority of the states in the nation from offering sports betting, state after state has been legalizing the industry. Lawmakers continue to look into what sports betting can bring their state, with several already offering services, including New Jersey, Delaware, West Virginia and Mississippi. Just recently, a committee in Indiana completed a review of sports betting, recommending that the state see the industry considered in 2019.
Unanimously Recommended:
A legislative study committee of Indiana unanimously agreed that the 2019 General Assembly should consider seeing the state join others where betting is allowed on professional as well as college sporting events.
Indiana lawmakers stated that the thirteen casinos of the state would most likely be the primary locations for sports betting. The two off-track betting sites of the state could also be considered for sports betting services.
Mobile Wagering:
Along with land-based options, it seems lawmakers are also open to mobile sports betting. The majority of the General Assembly’s Interim Study Committee on Public Policy members appeared to be in approval of mobile wagering, via application.
In Indiana, online gambling is already prevalent, as players have access to horse racing via mobile or desktop. Players can also use their mobile devices to wager within the state’s casinos.
According to nwitimes.com…
The Vice President of Government Relations at Gaming Laboratories International, Kevin Mullally, stated that mobile wagering is a logical option for most states as an extension of gaming as it gives the customer a lot of choices. The industry testing company expects to see more states offering mobile wagering, with certain technology used to ensure that only adults are wagering.
Repeat password checks, video verification and other methods of technology are used to ensure that only adults are placing the sports bets via mobile devices. Mullally also suggested that lawmakers could require mobile sports wagering accounts to be setup in person at a casino, by using photo ID and a credit card or bank account, to avoid potential underage wagering.
Indiana Gaming Commission is Ready:
The state’s Gaming Commission is ready to add sports betting to their portfolio if lawmakers in the state legalize the option. The group already had an analysis completed regarding the industry and what it would mean for the state via Eilers and Krejcik Gaming. The study revealed that in a five year time frame, both in-person and mobile sports wagers could reach the $256 million mark each year.