Tulalip Tribes will Open First Washington State Sportsbook

Washington State Legislature voted for the legalization of sports betting almost a year ago. At present, the state and the Tulalip Tribes agreed on the terms that will lead to the first Washington State sportsbook opening. The new compact will likely have the same provisions as similar deals given to other tribal casinos in the state. The state legislature gave tribes the monopoly over sports betting in Washington State. Thus, only tribal casino operators can open a sportsbook the fast and easy way. Gambling Commission chairman Bud Sizemore said they still need to do much work before the first Washington State sportsbook opens. Also, he said they are hopeful that it will open before the start of the regular NFL season.

First Washington State Sportsbook

The law allows betting on professional leagues, Olympic events, international tournaments, and college sports. However, people can’t wager on games played by in-state schools and esports. According to sportsbook pay per head reviews, the law also doesn’t allow mobile and online betting. Thus, many sports betting industry insiders expect people to travel to Oregon, where online sports betting is legal. Since 2019, the Oregon Lottery has operated an online sportsbook. According to sportsbook pay per head reports, Idaho has no plans of legalizing sports wagering. Thus, Washington State might be able to attract players from Idaho. The Legislature turned down the request from a card room operator to allow sports betting in their premises. Maverick Gaming supported the bill to enable non-tribal horse racing tracks and card rooms to accept wagers on sports. The Tribes opposed the idea because they want the sports betting monopoly. They said that sports betting revenue would provide more funds for housing, natural resources, education, and health care for their communities. Also, the Tribes noted that it would create more jobs in the state.