British Columbia Lottery launches single-event sports betting

The PlayNow.com platform has begun taking bets after Canada’s Bill C-218 came into effect on August 27.

Canada.- After Bill C-218 – the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act – came into effect in Canada on August 27, The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) has begun taking single-event sports bets via the PlayNow.com platform.

BCLC’s interim president and CEO Lynda Cavanaugh said: “This is a landmark moment for BCLC and our players.

“We’re excited to enhance our offerings on PlayNow.com, the only gambling website operating in B.C. where revenue goes back to British Columbians by supporting provincial initiatives like healthcare, education and community programs.”

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation has also begun offering single-event bets.

Bill C-218 was introduced in the Candian parliament in November 2020. It passed the Senate in June by a vote of 57-20 and received Royal Assent a week later. However, the bill has to be implemented by each Canadian province.

See also: Sports betting in Canada: lawmakers race against the clock