Minnesota lawmakers make another push to legalise sports betting

Lawmakers will make another push to legalise sports betting in Minnesota in the next session.

US.-  After several attempts, a key state lawmaker has said he will make another push in the next session and do everything he can to legalis sports betting in Minnesota.

Representative Zack Stephenson (DFL-Coon Rapids), chair of the House Commerce Committee, has pledged to put forward a yet-to-be-written bill in the House next year. So far 29 states and the District of Columbia have legal and functional sports gambling and three more states have approved it.

Stephenson said: “Minnesota shouldn’t be an island, one of an ever-shrinking number of states that don’t allow sports betting. It should be legal.”

Stephenson will need to consult with the Native American tribes in Minnesota about the legislation. Over the years, the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association (MIGA) has vocally opposed all previous sports betting bills, but this time may be different. 

Andy Platto, executive director of the association, has said that tribal governments have been closely examining the way sports betting has been implemented and grown across the US and how it impacts tribal communities.

Sen Roger Chamberlain (R-Lino Lakes), also said he will again introduce legislation to bring regulated sports betting to Minnesota. He said: “You work hard for your money, and if you want to place a little money in support of your favorite team, you shouldn’t have to drive to Iowa or use an international gambling app to do it.”

See also: Minnesota introduces sports betting bill