Next-Level Actions Taken For Legal Sports Betting in Louisiana

The world of sports is witnessing big changes in the state of Louisiana. Sports betting was already made legal by scraping the federal PASPA law in 2018. The power to decide the future of betting was given to the states. Since then, 20 states have legalized it. 

Now Louisiana is on its way to becoming the 21st state to offer this to its residents. The process has just taken off and will take time to discuss and debate the bills, but it was a much-awaited step by the public interested in gambling. 

Current Scenario Of Sports Betting In US

Until 2018, PASPA – Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act was a hurdle in making betting legal. Some states like New Jersey tried to bring about the reform but were challenged by major leagues as PASPA was still functioning. However, when the need to legalize sports betting rose, the law was scrapped and states were free to impose their will. This was welcomed by gamblers as casinos bustled with activity in-game seasons and league matches were being bet on. 

The tables are all packed and there is no way to escape the bets. In states of Nevada and Oklahoma, betting nears insanity. After betting in casinos, online sports betting was also introduced which functions distinctly in all states. This made it relatively a piece of cake to make bets and earn profits if done rightly. 

Interested people have had to log-in on the website and add money to account, placing it on available bets and adding wagers to the bet slips. But all this is prevalent only in 20 out of 50 states of the US. You can't participate in sports betting in casinos or online if the state doesn't allow it. 

Why is Louisiana Thinking Now?

The world is shut down, struck badly by the coronavirus pandemic. This has led to great economic slowdown in the entire world. The US economy has also crashed and efforts are being made to restore it bit by bit. A lot of revenue is being lost by shutting down casinos. The government is trying to get going with any sort of action. 

Louisiana is also looking at sports betting with the same hopes. Currently, there are 53 functional casinos in this state. All of these were forced to shut down and the loss suffered by revenue was great. It is natural for states to look for options to sustain their economy, and speculations say that more states might look to this direction. Louisiana has set the wheel in motion and the market thinks of it as an inspiration for other states. 

Progress Made So Far 

The last week was crucial for the future of sports betting in the state of Louisiana. The senate saw two bills, which were presented and voted. Senate Bill 130 and Senate Bill 378 gained a good share of support and were passed. Bill 130 states that the legalization of sports betting should be done with the say of the people of the state. 

It should be put on the November 2020 ballot for a vote, and the ultimate decision should be taken by the residents. Bill 378 explores the rules and regulations if people vote in favor of the topic. It is the next big step towards making Louisiana a gambling capital. However, both these bills will now be sent to the House of Representatives. 

If approved thereafter a series of debates and discussions, then the public would be voting about getting to bet or not. Sports betting could become a reality by the end of 2020 for Louisiana. This could be just a beginning, but it will go a long way. 

Pros And Cons Of The Bills

The steps taken in the Senate are viewed both positively and negatively by the people. For those who want it legalized, the news is big. But the bills don't guarantee that online sports betting will be allowed. So far, the bills only consider the possibility of live gambling inside the casinos. But no one knows for how long they will be shut down. Also, the charm of casinos will be lost to a great extent after the pandemic. 

Crowds will not be as prominent as social distancing will become the norm. The introduction of Mobile sports betting would have given a much stronger start to this industry. However, looking on the positive side, it is a long jump for a state like Louisiana to consider this possibility. Moreover, giving it a chance by having the support of the Senate members is crucial. 

Changes occur slowly and steadily. If there is a beginning, a path will soon be visible to get going. Let’s be affirmative that by the end of 2020, Louisiana will be making sports bets!