Across the United States, individual states are considering various aspects of the gambling industry. From the lottery and daily fantasy sports, to online gaming options, the overall gambling industry of the nation is expanding. One topic up for discussion in several states is sports betting. As the state of New Jersey awaits a decision in regard to being allowed to offer sports betting, Indiana is now the latest to consider similar legislation.
For some time now, New Jersey has been fighting for the right to offer sports betting options. A law is already on the books that gives the state the right to get started in the industry, but the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 stands in their way. This federal act blocks all but four states from offering sports betting.
The Christie vs NCAA case was created to find the PASPA unconstitutional. The case has made it all the way to the United States Supreme Court with a ruling expected by this summer on the matter. If the court rules in favor of NJ, sports betting would be open to all states. Several states have passed legislation or are working on sports betting laws to be ready if SCOTUS rules that PASPA is indeed unconstitutional
A new state considering such legislation is Indiana. Home to the NCAA, the state is sure to come upon contention on the matter, based on the fact that the NCAA is involved in the case, but on the other side, one against sports betting legalization. Reportedly, a lawmaker of Indiana is preparing to file legislation this session to see the state able to provide sports betting based on the SCOTUS ruling.
Other states already set to provide sports betting if PASPA is overturned include:
- California
- Mississippi
- Michigan
- New York
- Pennsylvania
For now, it is a waiting game to see what the court will decide. If they side with NJ, it would mean a major change to the gambling landscape in the US.
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