A legislative proposal to authorize mobile sports wagering in South Dakota has cleared the state’s upper chamber.
The measure, known as Senate Joint Resolution 502, will go before South Dakota voters in the upcoming general election, allowing residents to decide whether to approve it. The proposal passed by a slim margin, with 18 votes in favor and 17 opposed.
If approved by voters, individuals will have the option to place mobile wagers on sporting contests, provided the betting platform collaborates with one of the gambling establishments in Deadwood.
The legislation stipulates that any revenue generated from these gambling activities will be allocated towards educational, charitable, patriotic, religious, or other public endeavors, including the restoration and preservation of historical sites in Deadwood. The resolution will also permit state lottery and video gaming.
Sports wagering was legalized in South Dakota in March 2021 when Governor Kristi Noem signed Senate Bill 44, but only at casinos situated in Deadwood.
A separate bill that would legalize retail sports betting in affiliation with a Deadwood casino is currently progressing through the state legislature and has been referred to the House State Affairs Committee.
Legislation 1148 specifies an accredited associate as any entity that collaborates with a licensed gaming operator, aiming to offer patrons the chance to place bets on sporting events via the operator’s sports wagering platform.
The associate licensing fee is set at $2,000, with a $200 renewal charge due on the first of July each year. Any accredited associate discovered to be in breach of state gaming rules may face a penalty of up to $25,000.
Legislation 1148 was initially presented to the Senate in late January and is scheduled for a House review on the following day (February 9th).
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