The state of Vermont is closer to legalizing sports betting — which would make it the last state in New England to adopt the industry after Massachusetts went live earlier this month.
House Bill 127 was approved by an 11-1 vote by the Vermont House of Representatives’ Committee on Ways and Means, sending it to a third and final committee vote — the furthest a piece of betting legislation has made it in the state government.
Lawmakers have amended the bill since the last time it was up for consideration with updated language related to advertising limits and consumer protections.
The proposed legislation would allow for six sports betting apps to run in the state. Gov. Phil Scott has budgeted for $2.6 million in sports betting revenue if the bill were to become law.
“I don’t care for it, but I’ll vote for the bill,” Rep. James Masland said.
Meanwhile, Down South
Georgia hasn’t given up on legalizing sports betting, even after its most recent defeat earlier in March.
A new bill meant to recognize an annual soap box derby in the state has been radically changed to include language that would legalize sports betting in the state. The measure cleared a Senate committee by an 8-1 vote and could reach the Senate floor for vote this week.
In North Carolina, a new sports betting bill has been introduced to lawmakers, who are hoping to pass it after it failed in 2022.
