Show Me sports betting in Missouri in 2020?
After failing to get legal Missouri sports betting legalization to the state finish line in 2018 and 2019, lawmakers were hopeful that 2020 is the year. But more delays caused by Covid-19 shutdowns slowed the legislative process and also meant would-be bettors could not be in casinos placing wagers anyway.
There appears to be support for legal sports betting at Missouri casinos and also via online operators (presumably those partnered with those existing casinos). But there are some wrinkles to iron out, in particular around whether ‘integrity fees’ should be paid to sports leagues and also whether lawmakers should decide the matter or put it up for a referendum in November elections.
But in April 2020 when the St. Louis Post Dispatch reported the NBA and MLB did not renew contracts for lobbyists, it was clear that 2020 was lost and 2021 became the next target date for a Missouri sports betting legalization push.
Is sports betting legal in Missouri?
Not as of early 2020, but it seems this may be the year. Reps Cody Smith and Phil Christofanelli each advanced bills, which garnered support from various factions. Both prefer the legislature make the decision and not wait for public votes, as other states have done to ensure they have a mandate from citizens.
Where can I bet at Missouri sportsbooks?
The current bills suggest sportsbooks will be set up at existing casinos and there will also be online sports wagering courtesy of those operations.
What about mobile sports betting apps in Missouri?
Some states expressly curtail mobile betting. But Missouri sports betting bills have included this and lawmakers seem to understand the necessity of having this available to people who live far from land-based casinos.