RI Senate Passes Mobile Sports Betting Bill

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- The Rhode Island Senate passed a bill Wednesday that would allow online sports betting anywhere in the state. Under the law, Rhode Islanders would be able to place bets anywhere in the state with an app through Twin River Casino.

“The new in-person sportsbook that opened in November has been very popular, with lines sometimes stretching out the doors,” said Senate President Ruggerio (D-District 4, Providence, North Providence) in a release. “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.”

To use the app, Rhode Islanders would first have to create accounts in-person at Twin River Casino in Lincoln. To place bets, users would have to be within the state, which would be monitored by location technology. Wagers placed outside of Rhode Island will not be accepted.

The server for the app would be located at the casino, meaning the wagers would be considered to be accepted and placed there. Other states including New Jersey use similar systems.

Rhode Island would keep 51 percent of all winnings, the same amount currently taken through on-site wagering.

Sen. Ruggerio added that since bets are already being placed illegally, legal sports betting is a win-win for the state and its residents.

“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,” Ruggerio said. “It is estimated that 97 percent 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.”

The bill now heads to the House, where similar legislation has already been introduced by Speaker Nicholas Mattiello (D-District 15, Cranston).

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