Sports betting could become legal in Minnesota in 2025, potentially making it the 40th state to authorize sports wagering. State Sen. Matt Klein (DFL-Dakota County) plans to introduce new legislation when the Minnesota Legislature convenes on January 14.

Klein's proposed bill aims to create the nation's safest sports betting framework, with enhanced responsible gaming measures compared to his 2024 attempt. The legislation addresses concerns about gambling addiction and family bankruptcy through various safeguards.

Key aspects of the proposed legislation include:

• Exclusive rights for tribal nations with Class III gaming compacts
• Revenue sharing structure: tribes keep retail betting revenue while sharing 22% of online revenue
• Tax revenue allocation:
  • 45% to General Fund
  • 15% to horse racetracks
  • 10% to problem gambling programs
  • 10% for sporting event recruitment
  • 5% to youth sports
  • 15% to tribal equalization fund

Minnesota's market potential is significant due to:

• Population of 5.8 million
• Strong sports presence with teams in all five major leagues
• Previous hosting of major events like Super Bowl LII and NCAA Final Four
• Projected annual state tax revenue of $90 million from online sports betting

The state's existing gaming framework includes tribal casinos, and successful partnerships between commercial sportsbooks and Native American tribes already exist in other states like Arizona, Michigan, Washington, and Wisconsin.

This new attempt follows a failed 2024 effort that stalled due to political complications and the arrest of a state senator. Klein argues that regulation is necessary as residents already participate in offshore betting markets.

Related Articles

Previous Articles