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Read Full BioGeorgia’s House Study Committee on Gaming met to discuss legalizing gambling in the state, while Donald Trump Jr. has joined the voices advocating for relaxed sports betting laws.
The House Study Committee on Gaming met at Savannah Technical College on Tuesday to discuss “horse racing and betting as well as other matters related to gaming.”
A total of 14 individuals attended the meeting, with a further five joining online. The attendees included proponents and opponents of gambling.
Georgia ‘Excellent Place’ for Casino Resorts
Rep. Alan Powell said, “Georgia would be an excellent place” to open casino resorts, which offer a diverse range of entertainment options. Powell indicated he was in favor of putting legalization on the ballot and that “the people need to have the choice to implement all forms” of gambling.
Professor Brad R. Humphreys, a researcher on the economic impact of gambling, said that opening casinos would boost the economy through job creation. Humphreys noted that his own research shows that for every gambling job created, one or two hospitality jobs are also created.
It is estimated that the development of casino resorts, such as a proposed $1 billion Echo Park Speedway project, could create thousands of jobs and greatly contribute to the state’s economy.
A poll conducted in 2023 found that 85% of respondents supported allowing voters to decide on the establishment of casinos in the state.
The meeting was the third time the committee has met since forming in July, as lawmakers push forward with moves to put gambling on the ballot for next year.
Trump Jr. Calls for Changing Sports Betting Laws
Powell’s statements echoed calls from Trump Jr. on X, who said it was “crazy” that Georgia, along with Alabama, could not wager on sports. He added that he is in favor of changing the laws.
While residents in Georgia cannot legally wager on sports, they can use prediction markets. Trump Jr. serves as an advisor for both Polymarket and Kalshi, which both allowed Georgians to stake money on the winner of the Alabama-Georgia football game over the weekend.
In addition to using prediction markets, residents of Georgia and Alabama can play casino games at sweepstakes casinos. Operators relaunched in both states in August following a court victory for VGW in Georgia.
Georgia Mom Warns of Risks
Not all voices at the meeting were in favor, however. Founder and President of Moms Against Gambling, Jeanne Seaver, spoke during the meeting and shared testimonies of people affected by gambling addiction.
“The gambling industry is targeting our children,” Seaver said. “Gambling is harmful, but sports betting is the most dangerous to our kids, and we see the least amount of revenue in our state. Gambling expansion will forever change Georgia, and it’s something we can’t go back on.“
With sweepstakes casinos and prediction markets already expanding, the state may not be able to resist legalization for much longer.
