The US state of Rhode Island could be next in line to receive mobile sports wagering, after its senate approved legislation introduced by its president Dominick Ruggerio.
Allowing the activity through Lincoln’s Twin River Casino and the Tiverton Casino Hotel, the state would continue to receive 51 per cent of all winnings from sports wagering, among the highest rates in the country.
The legislation would work via the creation of an app that consumers would use to access the Twin River offerings from within state parameters, with individuals having to first set up an account in person at the property.
Users would have be physically in Rhode Island to wager, with technology to be utilised to determine the location of any person partaking in the activity, which would not accept wagers from outside of the state’s boundaries.
Ruggerio explained: “The new in-person sportsbook that opened in November has been very popular, with lines sometimes stretching out the doors.
“It is an entertainment option that many Rhode Islanders enjoy, and visitors from outside the state are also flocking to our gaming facilities to place their wagers on sporting events.
“Revenue from sports gaming supports critical state services”
“Expanding to mobile gaming would provide a convenient option for those wishing to enjoy this form of entertainment, and open up the economic benefits beyond the walls of Twin River.
“I can envision a group of friends from out-of-state spending an evening out in a local establishment, where they can both watch the game and place a wager.”
Similar to other states, such as New Jersey, wagering is received upon a server-based gaming system located on the premises of the casinos, and therefore deemed to be placed and accepted at the casino.
Ruggerio added: “Revenue from sports gaming supports critical state services, like road and bridge repairs, education and human services. This revenue offsets reliance on taxes for state needs.
“It is estimated that 97 per cent of sports betting takes place illegally. This is an opportunity to give Rhode Islanders and visitors a legal avenue to participate in an activity they enjoy, while providing a very tangible benefit to our state.”
Legislation 2019-S 0037A now moves to the House of Representatives, where a similar example has been introduced by Speaker of the House Nicholas Mattiello.