How State and Federal Laws Regulate Sports Betting in Massachusetts. PASPA was passed in order to curtail the spread of legalized state regulated sports betting within the US. The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992 banned sports betting in 46 states—Massachusetts. Sports-betting may not be legalized in Massachusetts yet. However, by the end of the year, things could quickly change. Two of the state’s neighbors, Rhode Island and Hampshire, have legalized online betting; it is only a matter of time before Massachusetts follows suit. Massachusetts lawmakers looked like they’d be on the leading edge of legal sports betting — in New England, anyway — at the start of 2019. Legislators and Governor Charlie Baker filed a total of a dozen sports betting bills, and Baker included a push for legalization in his state of the state address that year. Sports betting in Massachusetts In late February 2020, legislation was released by a panel which has been studying sports betting for a year. Casinos, horse racing tracks, the state’s only slots parlor, and up to five online-only operators of sports wagering could be allowed to offer sports betting soon. Massachusetts Sports Betting FAQs. Is sports betting legal in Massachusetts? At this time, Massachusetts does not currently have legalized sports betting in their state. However, bill H.4559 to allow in-person and online sports betting is being heard in the current legislative session. Are daily fantasy sports legal in Massachusetts?
No, sports betting in Massachusetts is not legal at this time.
Sports betting in Massachusetts
In late February 2020, legislation was released by a panel which has been studying sports betting for a year. Casinos, horse racing tracks, the state’s only slots parlor, and up to five online-only operators of sports wagering could be allowed to offer sports betting soon. Anyone wishing to bet would need to be at least 21 years old and physically be present inside state lines.
Republican Governor Charlie Baker proposed a bill in 2018 which would allow betting at licensed casinos and through online platforms. But other lawmakers have proposed similar legislation. It sounds like the state is closer to legalization like nearby New Hampshire and Rhode Island, than fellow New England states Maine and Vermont.
Another sticking point among legislators might be whether or not to allow betting on in-state institutions such as Boston College, UMass, Harvard and Northeastern.
Online sportsbooks in Massachusetts
None.
Retail sportsbooks in Massachusetts
None, but there are established casinos in the state. It likely won’t take long for areas to be created if legalization occurs.
Draftkings Sportsbook Massachusetts
For more sports betting information and betting tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. And follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter and on Facebook.