Regulatory Bodies in Kansas Push For Prompt Implementation of Sports Betting
In a significant move for sports enthusiasts in Kansas, the state is gearing up to legalise sports betting, with a potential launch date set for late 2025. While the exact timeline for the implementation of this new law is not explicitly detailed, the anticipated launch date aligns with the plans of neighbouring Missouri.
The Kansas Lottery and the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission (KRGC) are the regulatory bodies responsible for overseeing sports betting in the state. The KRGC will be drafting rules and applications for sports betting, while the Kansas Lottery will focus on negotiating contract amendments with the state's casinos.
The application process for sports betting operators in Kansas is expected to take around 90 days, with the process opening on August 15. The KRGC will also open its background-check process on the same date. The casinos in Kansas will be allocated three skins (digital platforms) for sports betting, and eight major operators have a clear path to market access, including Bally's, Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, FoxBet, and PointsBet.
In terms of taxation, the casinos in Kansas will be taxed at a rate of 10%. Of the state's take from sports betting taxes, $750,000 will be allocated to the white-collar crime fund.
The casinos will not be the only businesses benefiting from this new law. Buffalo Wild Wings, which has an existing marketing agreement with BetMGM, could offer wagering specials to customers in their restaurants, should the company gain market access. However, these partnerships won't translate into digital platforms or small sportsbooks but could allow restaurants, bars, or other businesses to partner with sportsbooks for advertising or specials.
The timeline for Missouri's sports betting launch is more concrete, with the Missouri Gaming Commission aiming for a launch date of December 1, 2025. Given the regional competition and coordination, it is reasonable to infer that Kansas might target a similar timeframe for launch to keep pace.
Kansas Lottery Director, Stephen Durrell, has expressed hopes to launch the sports betting before the specified date. However, the actual timeline remains to be seen, as no direct timeline from the Kansas Lottery or the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission is provided in the search results.
In conclusion, while the exact timeline for the launch of legal sports betting in Kansas is not yet confirmed, the anticipated launch date aligns with Missouri's plans, suggesting a potential launch in late 2025. For accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult direct official statements or recent Kansas regulatory updates.
- Kansas Lottery and the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission (KRGC) are the regulatory bodies overseeing sports-betting in Kansas, with the KRGC drafting rules and applications, while the Kansas Lottery will negotiate contract amendments with casinos.
- The application process for sports-betting operators in Kansas is anticipated to take 90 days, commencing on August 15, while the KRGC will also open its background-check process on the same day.
- Major sports-betting operators with a clear path to market access in Kansas include Bally's, Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, FoxBet, and PointsBet.
