As we first mentioned in our article back in February, Washington State was fully expected to legalize sports betting in some form. Back then we were looking at them approving the activity but limiting it to brick-and-mortar shops only. But the law that was just signed and delivered is much more stringent.
Sports betting in Washington State will only be legal if done on native american properties. Yesterday Gov. Jay Inslee signed the bill.
Washington Indian Gaming Association Executive Director Rebecca Kaldor had this to say: ”The revenue generated by tribal gaming funds critical needs in our communities. Tribal communities and governments are currently dealing with the devastating impacts of the coronavirus pandemic,″ she said. “As we recover from this crisis, the addition of this amenity will help tribal governments fund the essential services their members will need to get back up on their feet.”
Critics of the “Tribe Only” bill say that the state is leaving up to $50M on the table by making sports betting readily available to residents outside of the tribe areas. This includes mobile betting which is really necessary to fully benefit from the activity.
