Kansas sports betting was passed less than two months ago, but that has not stopped Governor Laura Kelly from setting some aggressive goals for the launch. After signing the legislation into law last week, we said that she hoped to see bets being accepted as early as the upcoming NFL season.
Governor Kelly stated that “Legalizing sports betting is a common-sense solution that will keep Kansans’ money in Kansas”. And while her hopes on a September roll out may optimistic, state regulators are required to have guidelines in place for a launch of operations no later than January 1st, 2023.
Estimates are that the regulation of Kansas sports betting will bring the state over $40 million in additional tax revenue over the first five years of operation. Players will be allowed to place bets in land-based casinos, at betting kiosks, and online. Additionally, the state has already begun negotiations with Native American Tribes in the state to create new or updated compacts which include sports betting.
So far, major operators like Bally’s and BetMGM have announced operations in the state, as well as both DraftKings and FanDuel. Regulation will be provided by the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission and the state lottery. The Commission will present some preliminary rules for Kansas sports betting next month.
“Soon, sporting events, casinos, restaurants, and other entertainment venues will have another way to attract Kansans to their establishments,” said Governor Kelly.