Vermont has inched closer to having legalised sports betting in the state, as an act relating to sports wagering passed in the state House.
House Bill 127 was introduced by Democratic representative Matt Birong as well as nine other house members (6D, 3R).
The act aims to authorise the state’s Department of Liquor and Lottery to operate sports betting through contracts with operators, as well as also granting the office regulatory authority over the activity.
If passed, a bidding process will be conducted for the state to approve qualified operators to enter the new market.
Under the bill at least two, but no more than six, operators can be contracted by the commissioner to operate an online sportsbook in the state.
Additionally, there are a number of regulations set out in the bill to ensure safe gambling practices are put in place. Among these is the creation of the Responsible Gaming Special Fund, which is to be used by the Department of Mental Health for problem gambling related services.
The bill will now go on to be considered by the senate. If passed, Vermont would be seeing sports betting in the near future.
