Minnesota would join a fast growing list of states who allow citizens to wager on sporting events under a new bill from Sen. Roger Chamberlain (R-Lino Lakes). The move comes after the United States Supreme Court last year struck down a 1992 federal law that effectively banned most states from authorizing commercial sports gambling. Eight other states and Washington D.C. have already legalized sports betting since the SCOTUS decision and dozens more are considering sports gambling legislation.

“Fans typically have pretty strong opinions on their favorite sports, teams, and players,” said Sen. Chamberlain. “Why is it government’s business to stop people from investing in their opinions? Millions of people are already betting on sports; let’s let them have fun and do it in a safe, structured, and protected manner. Maybe they can even make a little money too.”

Even though the activity remains illegal in most states, Americans are gambling on sports in massive numbers. The National Council of Legislators from Gaming States estimates that illegal sports betting is a $150-$450 billion black market nationwide. Sen. Chamberlain’s bill would take the thriving illegal market and regulate it, structure it, and make it safer and more accessible for Minnesotans so they can confidently gamble under the protection of the law.

Legal sports betting enjoys overwhelming public support according to polling conducted by the American Gaming Association. The group found 79% of Americans support legal sports betting in their state; in addition, 63% support the Supreme Court ruling. A separate poll from East Carolina University poll found Americans support legal sports gambling by a 47% to 26% margin.

Senate File 1894 passed the Senate Taxes Committee and was referred to the committee on State Government Finance.