Legislation
US – Rhode Island Governor signs in mobile betting
By Phil - 26 March 2019
Rhode Island’s Democratic Governor Gina Raimondo has now signed in a bill adding mobile sports betting to its mix.
The new laws will allow the creation of an app consumers could use to access the sports gaming offerings at Twin River from anyplace within the parameters of the state of Rhode Island. Consumers must initially set up their accounts in person at Twin River, and thereafter could place a wager from anywhere in the state. They must be physically in the state of Rhode Island in order to wager. The system would utilse technology to determine the location of any person placing a wager, and would not accept wagers from outside of the state’s boundaries.
Rhode Island is the only New England state that allows sports betting.
Democratic Senate President Dominick Ruggerio said: “Expanding to mobile gaming would provide a convenient option for those wishing to enjoy this form of entertainment, and open up the economic benefits beyond the walls of Twin River. I can envision a group of friends from out of state spending an evening out in a local establishment where they can both watch the game and place a wager.”
The state’s fiscal year beginning July 1 is betting on $30m from sports betting, including $3m in new revenue from mobile gambling.
President Ruggerio added: “The new in-person sportsbook that opened in November has been very popular, with lines stretching out the doors. It is an entertainment option that many Rhode Islanders enjoy, and visitors from outside the state are also flocking to our gaming facilities to place their wagers on sporting events. Expanding to mobile gaming would provide a convenient option for those wishing to enjoy this form of entertainment, and open up the economic benefits beyond the walls of Twin River. I can envision a group of friends from out-of-state spending an evening out in a local establishment where they can both watch the game and place a wager.”
Twin River spokesperson Patti Doyle said: “We’re grateful that our customers will have the opportunity to enjoy our sports betting amenity in a new and convenient way.
In addition to wagering in the Sportsbook Bar & Grill at Twin River in Lincoln, at other terminals throughout the casino floors at both Rhode Island venues, and most recently, at self-service kiosks, our customers can opt to do so from the convenience of a mobile app. We look forward to working with the State, the Division of Lotteries and our other partners in this new product roll-out.”
The State of Rhode Island will continue to receive 51 per cent of all winnings from sports betting, among the highest rates in the country.
“Revenue from sports gaming supports critical state services, like road and bridge repairs, education and human services. This revenue offsets reliance on taxes for state needs,” said President Ruggerio. “It is estimated that 97 per cent of sports betting takes place illegally. This is an opportunity to give Rhode Islanders and visitors a legal avenue to participate in an activity they enjoy, while providing a very tangible benefit to our state.”
