The plan to expand online sports betting options in Delaware took a big step forward.
The bill that opens Delaware online sports betting to up to six total online sportsbooks advanced out of the House Administration Committee and now awaits a hearing in the House Appropriations Committee.
Delaware’s proposed legislation would diversify the online sports betting market by moving beyond the current monopoly held by BetRivers. The bill incorporates recommendations from a legislative study group formed last year.
The group suggested the following recommendations:
It appears lawmakers agree. The bill’s progress signals positive momentum for the expansion of legal online gambling options in the state.
Delaware House Bill 365 (HB 365), sponsored by Rep. Franklin D. Cooke, aims to expand the state’s sports betting market by allowing multiple online sports betting operators.
Here are the key points:
The end goal would be to create a more competitive and diverse online sports betting landscape in Delaware, benefiting both consumers and the state’s revenue streams. According to Cooke, the current sports betting model in Delaware falls short of generating substantial revenue for the state.
The high fees paid to BetRivers contribute to the net level remaining low. However, Cooke believes that fostering a more competitive market could significantly boost state funds. He emphasizes the importance of allocating these additional resources to address problem gambling and enhance prevention and treatment efforts.
Representatives from BetRivers’ parent company, Rush Street Interactive, and the Delaware Lottery voiced their opposition to the bill.
They argued that expanding the sports betting market would reduce state revenues. They also claim that there was no interest in the market during the RFP process. Only BetRivers and 888 responded to the lottery’s RFP, but during the most recent committee hearing, the Sports Betting Alliance was present, with representatives from DraftKings, FanDuel and BetMGM speaking. Several lawmakers also expressed concerns about altering the market shortly after the state’s partner launched.
We’ll continue to follow the developments.