Sports betting could be live in Massachusetts before the end of the year, barring surprises from the governor and regulators.
Catch up fast: Democrats passed a bill on the matter at the end of a 22-hour session Monday morning and sent it to Republican Gov. Charlie Baker’s desk.
Why it matters: Lawmakers say it must bring in at least $60 million a year in tax revenue, as well as $70 million or more in license fees every five years.
The other side(s): Rep. Mike Connolly (D-Cambridge) said he voted no because he was concerned about college athletes being taken advantage of and more traffic coming to the Encore Boston Harbor Casino in Everett, where residents already complain about daily lines.
How it works: The state allows several types of betting, both in person and via mobile app.
Details: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission could issue up to seven sports betting licenses for mobile apps, along with separate licenses for the state’s three casinos and horse racing businesses.
What they’re saying: “There’s nothing about this bill that really breaks new ground, and that’s probably a good thing,” Chris Grove, a gambling industry analyst and co-founding partner at venture capital firm Acies Investments, told Axios.
What’s Next: Senate Ways & Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues (D-Westport) told reporters the sports betting market could launch this fall, though that means state regulators will likely have to start issuing temporary licenses to speed up the process.
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