Minnesota is poised to become the 40th state to legalize sports betting in 2025, with new legislation planned for the upcoming legislative session starting January 14.

State Sen. Matt Klein (DFL-Dakota County) will introduce a revised sports betting bill, following last year's stalled attempt. The new legislation promises to include enhanced responsible gaming protections, potentially making it the safest sports wagering bill nationwide.

Key aspects of the proposed legislation:

• Tribal nations will have exclusive rights to retail and online sports betting
• Tribes keep retail betting revenue but share 22% of online revenue with state
• Revenue allocation includes:
  • 45% to General Fund
  • 15% to horse racetracks
  • 10% to problem gambling programs
  • 10% for major sporting events
  • 5% to youth sports
  • 15% to tribal equalization fund

Minnesota's market potential is significant due to:

• Population of 5.8 million
• Teams in all five major professional sports leagues
• Major event hosting capabilities
• Estimated $90 million annual state tax revenue

The bill addresses concerns about gambling addiction through increased safeguards while aiming to regulate existing illegal betting activities. With strong legislative support and established frameworks from other states, Minnesota appears well-positioned to join the growing list of states with legal sports betting in 2025.

Related Articles

Previous Articles