Rhode Island sports betting market set to expand to up to five operators
The Rhode Island Senate has approved legislation introduced by Majority Leader Frank A. Ciccone III that would increase the number of companies allowed to offer sports betting in Rhode Island. Currently, only IGT has state approval to run the state’s only sports betting service.
“With legalised sports betting flourishing across the country, there is ample evidence on how this new industry works best for consumers and the state. And what we are seeing is that having only one company exclusively operate is not in the best interests of consumers or from a revenue generating standpoint. This bill will give our state’s sports bettors the options that they are clamoring for and in turn, will hopefully strengthen the revenue generated from sports betting in Rhode Island and not across the border in Massachusetts,” said Mr Ciccone.
The legislation (2025-S 0748Aaa) would stop the State Lottery Division of Gaming from renewing any existing sports wagering vendor contracts after Jan. 31, 2026. Prior to the expiration of any existing contracts, the division would issue an open invitation for applicants for sports-wagering vendors. Not less than three, but no more than five, vendors would then be awarded contracts.
The bill would open the market up to names like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM and ESPN Bet.
DraftKings said in committee testimony supporting the bill: “We believe Rhode Island can reach its market potential with Senate Bill 748. The bill would allow Rhode Island residents to play on their favorite apps, while increasing tax revenue. A marketplace with multiple choices for players leads to a better player experience – operators are forced to innovate, while competing for business.”
Current operator, IGT, disagreed that opening the market up would bring more revenues. IGT Senior Vice President Joe Bertolone said: “The Rhode Island model outperforms many of its regional peers despite the presence of high-profile competitors in neighboring states. This strong fiscal performance is not coincidental; it reflects the benefits of centralized operations, cohesive marketing and product development through committed in-state operating partners. The data strongly suggests that maintaining the current model is the most prudent course of action to safeguard and grow state revenues.”
The bill now heads to the House for consideration, where Rep. Matthew S. Dawson (D-Dist. 65, East Providence) has introduced the legislation (2025-H 6048).
