Governor Signs Bill to Legalize Sports Betting in Arizona

On April 15, Governor Ducey, accompanied by several tribal leaders across the state, signed into law a bill that legalizes sports betting in Arizona.  HB2772 (fantasy sports betting; event wagering) was one of the Governor’s main legislative priorities.  The controversial measure that passed the legislature with bipartisan support and opposition allows sports betting under licenses issued to tribes and pro sports teams. Additionally, the bill allows gambling on fantasy sports and new Keno games at horse racetracks and fraternal organizations. Collegiate sports are included in the bill.  The new law prohibits sports betting for anyone under 21 and any individual with insider knowledge of a game is prohibited from betting. Prop bets, which is a wager based on the occurrences or non- occurrences during a sporting event, are also prohibited under the new law.  The legislative budget office, which reviews the fiscal impact of legislation, estimates that the new gambling will bring in about $34 million annual in new revenue for the state.  This estimate is based on the experience of other states with similar laws. The Department of Gaming is tasked with creating the infrastructure to regulate sports betting, it is expected that betting may begin as early as January 2022.