ST. PAUL, MN – Senator Julia Coleman today joined a bipartisan group of senators to announce a bill to fully legalize sports gambling in Minnesota. 

“From numerous constituent emails to discussions with my family and friends, legalizing sports wagering is a popular request and one that I will continue to push for this session,” Coleman said. “This proposal aligns Minnesota with our neighboring states, who have already successfully created a legal option. Legalizing sports betting has Minnesota catching up to the competition and provides a safe and legal structure for people to participate in sports.”

The proposal as outlined would allow for sports betting at tribal casinos and both racetracks in the state, which would pay licensing fees for in-person gaming. Sub-licenses may be issued by Tribal Nations to vendors for online gaming operations. Revenue from online gaming would be taxed by the state. Revenues would go to the general fund with possible earmarks for the dollars to be determined. If signed into law this year, it could go into effect in the fall of 2023.  

With the move by Wisconsin to legalize sports wagering, Minnesota is now the only state in our region without a legal option. North of the border Canada allows gaming as well. This means Minnesotans must cross our borders to bet on games or find illegal workarounds with online vendors. Legalizing betting in the state would mean Minnesotans can bet from their own backyard and know they are doing so in a safe manner.