The first Georgia sports betting bill passed out of committee in 2024.

Georgia lawmakers, unsuccessful in legalizing sports betting last year, are making another attempt with SB172. Sponsored by Sen. Bill Cowsert, it seeks to allow online and retail sports betting through a constitutional amendment.

The bill, previously stalled, now advances after clearing the Senate committee. To succeed, it requires two-thirds majority approval in each chamber and a voter referendum.

 

[CR7]

It's great to see that Georgia lawmakers are making another attempt to legalize sports betting in the state through Senate Bill 172. Sponsored by Senator Bill Cowsert, this bill aims to allow both online and retail sports betting through a constitutional amendment.

The fact that the bill has advanced after clearing the Senate committee is an encouraging sign. However, it's important to note that for it to become law, it will require a two-thirds majority approval in each chamber and a voter referendum. These are significant hurdles that must be overcome in order for the bill to be successful.

Requiring a two-thirds majority in both chambers demonstrates the need for bipartisan support, which can sometimes be challenging to achieve in politically divided contexts. Additionally, the voter referendum requirement adds an extra layer of complexity to the process, as the bill would need to gain public support through a statewide vote.

While this news is promising, it's important to temper expectations, as there are no guarantees that the bill will ultimately become law. However, the fact that it has advanced this far indicates that there is some level of interest and support for legalizing sports betting in Georgia.

If the bill does succeed, allowing online and retail sports betting could have several positive impacts on the state. It would provide an opportunity for Georgia residents to engage in a popular form of entertainment and potentially generate significant tax revenue for the state. Additionally, legalizing sports betting could help curb the illegal market and provide a safer environment for bettors by implementing necessary regulations and consumer protections.

It will be interesting to see how lawmakers proceed with Senate Bill 172 and if they can garner the necessary support to push it through both chambers and onto a voter referendum. In the meantime, sports betting enthusiasts in Georgia will likely be eagerly following the progress of this bill and hoping for its successful passage into law.