Kansas’ four-state owned casinos can officially begin accepting in-person and online sports wagering from a September 1, 2022, soft launch before commencing full activity one week later on September 8.
This represents a swift turnaround from May when Governor Laura Kelly signed Bill 84, which also allows the negotiation of a new or existing gaming compact regarding sports wagering with tribes across the region. These venues will be authorised to launch as soon as they are ready.
Sports wagering, like all gaming in Kansas, is owned by the state and operated by the Kansas Lottery, and will see full launch commence on the day that the regular NFL season gets underway when the Los Angeles Rams host the Buffalo Bills.
“This announcement represents a lot of hard work and collaboration between the Kansas Lottery, the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, our casino and tribal partners,” said Stephen Durrell, Executive Director of the Kansas Lottery.
“The process to bring this to fruition has moved at an unbelievable pace. We are excited to be bringing sports betting to Kansas players and adding more fun and exciting play options to the Sunflower State.”
Local media report that agreements gained by Kansas gaming establishments will see sports wagering be offered at Kansas Star Casino, alongside FanDuel and MGM; Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway, with Barstool and Fox Bet; Kansas Crossing Casino & Hotel, via Caesars and PointsBet, and Boot Hill Casino & Resort, which boasts agreements with DraftKings and Bally’s.
“We’ve been working diligently with our current online wagering platform partners to bring online sports betting to Kansans just as soon as regulators give us the green light,” commented Clark Stewart, CEO, Butler National Corporation.
“The approval of the sports wagering management contract brings us one step closer to that significant achievement.”
Adding: “Our team is focused on the timely launch of the DraftKings mobile platform and the DraftKings retail sports book at Boot Hill Casino in Dodge City.
“We are thrilled to bring the excitement of sports wagering to our casino guests and to all Kansans.”
Operators are being granted a one-year provisional licence based on past performance in other states.
“Legalising sports betting is a common-sense solution that keeps Kansans’ money in Kansas and drives business to sporting events, casinos, restaurants, and other entertainment venues,” Governor Laura Kelly said.
“I want to thank all our partners for working with us to get this done in time for football season.”