Georgia Sports Betting

Unfortunately, it remains unclear when (or if) sports betting will be legalized. Despite the May 2018 Supreme Court decision that overturned the federal laws prohibiting sports betting, allowing many states to initiate sports gambling legislation, several states, including Georgia, have encountered divisive, populist agendas and petty political battles reminiscent of elementary school disagreements.

In May 2020, one House Bill – HB 903 and one Senate – SR 841 – were amended to include higher tax rates on sports betting. The hope was the inclusion of higher tax rates would allow some to see the benefit of a sports betting program, with revenue raised directed toward public projects.

Despite the fact that there is public support in Georgia for sports betting legalization, party room politics knows that sports betting is not a key political platform as the November 2020 elections draw near.

On top of that, there has been long standing history of an aversion to legalizing any form of gambling beyond that of charitable gaming and bingo.

If ever sports betting were to get over the line the following regulations have been proposed in the past bills submitted to the Houses:

Alas, this leaves onshore sports betting illegal indefinitely.


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Summary

Whilst in the past year there has been very little signs of political will power to change any of the current gambling laws in Georgia, in October 2019 a well presented argument to reform restrictive and outdated gambling laws was put forward to the steering committee by the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

A vision of having a state of the art casino combined with horse racing track, wrapped with an entertainment center was the selling point to legalize sports (and casino) gambling.

If this dream were to come true, Georgia would be seen as one of the leading states in gambling reformation.

The year 2020 has been a shambles for Georgia State politics. Exacerbated by the events of Covid-19 and racial discourse, sports betting took a back seat, and really is not at the forefront of political agenda.

Despite this, public opinion is overall supportive of legalizing sports betting and casino gaming.


Sport Betting Legalization Outlook for Georgia

The future of sports betting reform in Georgia is extremely positive. Unlike the big four states of New York, Florida, Texas and California where native American casinos are holding their positions of monopolizing sports betting strongly, there are no issues of such in Georgia.

In fact, the public are showing majority support in legalizing sports betting and casino games to generate employment, housing establishments, and increase wealth and assets for the state of Georgia.

Look out for sports betting becoming legal in the year 2020!


Is Sports Betting illegal in Georgia?

The only form of sports betting in Georgia that is not illegal is offshore sports betting via the internet. In 2018, $22.6 million was wagered on offshore sports betting sites according to H2 Gambling Capital.

Though you physically may be located within the borders of Georgia, the actual sports book is licensed and operated offshore thereby not breaking the onshore laws of sports betting.

Thus it is not illegal to bet at an offshore licensed sportsbook.

All other forms of sports betting in Georgia is illegal -This includes operating and running a sports book

How can I find an online Sportsbook?

The most popular offshore sportsbook is Bovada. It is the largest and has a long standing history of operating a sportsbook for US citizens.

Do NOT place a bet at an unlicensed sports book operating offshore. Unlicensed sportsbooks may not be reliable. Although they may offer great Welcome Bonuses, their promise to pay any winnings may be empty. Keep with the trusted and big brand names.

How can I place a Sports Bet onshore?

It is illegal to run a sports book or place a sports bet within the borders of Georgia. Other than placing a sports bet at an offshore online sports book the only other option is to travel interstate where sports betting has been legalized.


Professional Sport Bets in Georgia

In a combined letter released to the public, the four professional teams – the Atlanta Falcons (NFL), the Atlanta Braves (MLB), the Atlanta Hawks (NBA), and Atlanta United (MLS) have come out in support of sports betting legalization. They have voiced their disagreement with permitting college games to be bet on, and wish to have bets placed on professional sports only.

Sports Betting Altanta Hawks (NBA)

If you are old like me, you may remember the days of “The Human Highlight Reel” Dominique Wilkins. The Atlanta Hawks had a great entertainment factor, and for many years continuing they still do. Often overlooked as a powerhouse team in the NBA, I believe they hold their ground consistently. On the rebuilding process, their new super star player is Trae Young, which is almost a Steph Curry v2. Young is showing a lot of promise. Now, if he could only play some defense!

Unfortunately in the two years past, the Atlanta Hawks will be remembered for exchanging Luka Doncic for Trae Young. Young is a great player, shows a lot of promise, but the consensus is that Doncic is a generational player. Doncic is currently on the running for regular season MVP in only his second year in the NBA!

The Hawks are at the bottom of the table. So don’t bet of them winning any time soon.


Sports Betting Atlanta Braves (MLB)

Though ending in disappointment, the highlight of the 2019 season was the addition of former MVP Josh Donaldson. He brought an edge to the Atlanta Braves both offensively and defensively. The year 2020 will bring more exciting betting action, if Josh Donaldson returns.

Sports Betting Atlanta Falcons (NFL)

The Atlanta Falcons are a below average team, always looking like they aren’t at the beginning of each season. What this means, is to always place a bet against them even when playing at home.


Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Georgia?

DFS is legal in Georgia. Gambling is defined a game of luck in Georgia. DFS is regarded as a game of skill and therefore does not fall under the definition of gambling. Therefore DFS is legal.

Is DraftKings legal in Georgia?

DraftKings accepts players from Georgia – legally, safely and securely.


Bordering States

North Carolina | South Carolina | Tennessee | Alabama | Florida