Gambling heavyweights unite to create first US sports betting forum

Heavy hitters from the newly-minted US sports betting industry have come together to create the US State Gambling Regulators Forum.

Following the recent Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas last week, state gaming regulators joined forces in an effort to pre-empt federal involvement in the industry, share information and improve integrity.

Sports betting has grown significantly since the historic Supreme Court decision to overrule the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act this year.

Data released in September showed on-site sports betting at casinos and racetracks rose by $5.1 million to $79 million, which is a seven per cent increase. Also, wagers placed over the internet increased from $21.7 million in August to $104.9 million in September.

Following that growth, a US House of Representatives subcommittee discussed whether the federal government should get involved. Many believe the threat of federal intervention has triggered the move of state regulators to band together.

The first six members to join the US State Gambling Regulators Forum include an impressive list of names:

• David Rebuck, director of New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
• Becky Harris, Nevada Gaming Control Board chairwoman
• Kevin O’Toole, executive director of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
• Allen Godfrey, executive director of the Mississippi Gaming Commission
• Rick Kalm, Michigan Gaming Control Board executive director
• Ronnie Jones, Louisiana Gaming Control Board chairman

In a statement released on Wednesday, October 17, the purpose of the forum was outlined to include:

• Policy issues on sports betting
• Current regulatory and operational issues
• Information sharing and integrity monitoring
• Illegal sports betting markets
• Development of best practices in sports betting oversight

The group stated that it will come together on a regular basis, developing reports, addressing new legal challenges and providing guidance that can benefit the industry.

Mississippi already has legalized sports betting, and Pennsylvania sports betting should roll out later this year.

• For a full guide to the USA online gambling industry, which states you can legally gamble online and more, check out our comprehensive guide.

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