BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WCBS 880) — Connecticut is one step closer to allowing online gambling and sports betting after the Connecticut House of Representatives approved the largest expansion of gambling in state history.
"They can do sports betting in person, they can also online sports betting in person on the reservation, they can do fantasy contests," said State Rep. Maria Horn.
At present, the Mohegan Tribe and Mashantucket Pequot Tribe have exclusive rights to casino games in Connecticut.
Now the Connecticut Lottery would join the mix with online games, Keno and sports betting.
There will also be 15 sports betting locations around the state with larger facilities in Hartford and Bridgeport.
There will be no betting on in-state college sports.
By 2026, Connecticut could generate $83 million a year in tax revenue.
The measure now heads to the Senate and Gov. Ned Lamont is eager to sign it.
“I want to thank the Connecticut House of Representatives for the careful consideration and bipartisan passage of legislation that will bring Connecticut’s gaming, lottery, and sports betting market into the future, positioning our state as a leader,” Lamont said. “I also want to express my appreciation to the co-chairs of the Public Safety Committee, including State Representative Maria Horn, for their partnership as they worked with members of my administration to draft and move this legislation through the process. I look forward to this measure’s swift passage in the Senate so we can start the federal process of ensuring this legislation and agreement is authorized.”
Opponents say this will contribute to even more gambling addiction.