Report Shows Potential for Growth
A report from Spectrum Gaming Group (SGG) is driving the proposal to expand sports betting in Rhode Island. The state lottery commissioned the report and shared its findings. It showed that the state’s market was underperforming due to having just one operator. If the market wants to compete with the rest of the regions, SGG recommends that the state add between two and four online sportsbooks.
Currently, the state is partnered with International Game Technology to operate Sportsbook Rhode Island. This is the only legal sports betting platform available in the state, and it has been posting underwhelming numbers.
Hurdles in the House Remain
While the Senate overwhelmingly approved SB 748, passing the House will be a far bigger challenge.
House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi has gone on the record to speak out against previous attempts to expand the market. He isn’t opposed to the idea itself, but believes the conversation isn’t worth having now due to the state’s contract with IGT. That deal won’t expire until late 2026 and contains language to prevent expansion before then.
With just over three weeks remaining before House lawmakers go home, SB 748’s chances of passing this year seem slim.
Debate Over Underage Gambling Continues
In addition to SB 748, the Senate is also reviewing a bill that would increase penalties for underage gambling. It would update the law so that those convicted would face up to one year in prison and a $1,000 fine. The goal is to continue to protect young bettors from being exposed to problem gambling.
While the bill has gained some momentum, several key lawmakers in both chambers have spoken out against the idea. They have pointed out that the retail gambling age is set at 18, but the online age is 21. This could lead to bettors between the ages of 18 and 20 being criminally convicted without even realizing they were breaking the law.