Sports Betting News

Fanatics Sportsbook launched its platform in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, making it the fifth operator to go live in the market. Fanatics is now available in 22 markets across the US, making it one of the most widespread sportsbooks in the country.

Two lawmakers have proposed the SAFE Bet Act, which would completely overhaul the US sports betting industry. The proposal would reset the market, handing control over to the federal government. The bill would also add severe advertising restrictions and protections for bettors.

Circuit Court Judge Green has ruled that a lawsuit challenging a sports betting initiative lacked the evidence needed to keep it off the November ballot. That means residents will have a chance to legalize the industry in the upcoming election.

New York has reported a 29% year-over-year increase to their sports betting handle in August, a third of which was generated in the first week of the college football season. DraftKings led all operators for the first time since May with $526 million in wagers.

The IRS has sent out a press release warning bettors against using unregulated sportsbooks when wagering on the upcoming NFL season. They estimate that the illegal sports betting market in the US to be worth northwards of $700 million.

The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement has levied a $33,000 fine against bet365 for offering unapproved betting options on its sportsbook. The wager in question revolved around events that were on tap delay, making them illegal under New Jersey law.

The AGA estimates that the NFL season will see around $35 billion in wagers, a 30% increase from last year. More states starting the season with legal sports betting, an expanded D.C. market, and Bovada's downfall are expected to lead to more wagers this season.

A Missouri Court will review a lawsuit on Thursday that challenges a recent initiative to put sports betting on the November ballot. The challenge argues that old maps were used when the state reviewed the initiative's signatures, which should have led to its failure.

A study from the University of Bristol showed that most US sportsbooks’ social media posts do not include verbiage about responsible gaming. The AGA confirmed the study was likely correct but also clarified that sportsbooks are not required to include it in non-sponsored posts.

Hard Rock Bet has launched its online sportsbook in Illinois, the eighth market it is now live in. The brand also opened a new retail sportsbook in Rockford, giving it a significant presence in the state soon after becoming the sole operator in Florida.