Georgia Lawmakers Consider Gambling Legalization

|
Georgia Lawmakers Consider Gambling Legalization

Georgia lawmakers are once again revisiting the idea of legalizing gambling, including real money online casinos, online sportsbooks, and horse racing. 

Supporters believe new revenue streams could benefit education and infrastructure, while opponents remain concerned about potential social impacts. 

Moreover, national figures such as Donald Trump Jr. are also weighing in, urging states like Georgia and Alabama to embrace sports betting.

History of Georgia Lawmakers Debating Gambling Legalization

For years, Georgia legislators have considered expanding gambling beyond the state lottery. Proposals have ranged from brick-and-mortar casinos to online sportsbooks and real money online casinos. Yet, despite repeated attempts, none have cleared both chambers.

Senator Brandon Beach acknowledged the challenge earlier this year: 

“The legislation is going to have to come from the House. We’ve passed it a couple of times and it’s died in the House.”

Additionally, Representative Ron Stephens, who has long championed gambling legislation, highlighted how long the debate has dragged on: 

“We’ve been talking about this issue since my hair was black.”

Currently, Georgia only permits lottery games. Casinos, online casinos, or sportsbooks are not regulated nor licensed in the state. Lawmakers believe this leaves millions of dollars on the table as residents turn to neighboring states or unregulated platforms.

Some proposals under discussion include Senate Resolution 131, which would authorize casinos, horse racing, and online sportsbooks. If passed, the measure would require a constitutional amendment, meaning voters would have the final say.

Donald Trump Jr. Backs Legal Sports Betting in Georgia and Alabama

Donald Trump Jr. has publicly voiced his support for legalizing sports betting in both Georgia and Alabama. He argues that online sportsbooks are already widely used and that legalization would let states regulate the industry while capturing new tax revenue.

Trump Jr. replied in a social media post on X about Greg Price’s comment about Georgia and Alabama still not regulating or licensing sports betting, and that this should be changed:

“Crazy. Totally agree on changing it.”

His comments add national attention to Georgia’s gambling debate, which has stalled multiple times in the legislature.

What Comes Next for Georgia

Georgia lawmakers are preparing for more hearings, studies, and negotiations as they revisit gambling expansion in the 2026 session. Any serious plan will require bipartisan support and a statewide vote.

If lawmakers succeed, Georgia could join states like Michigan and Pennsylvania in authorizing real money online casinos, regulated online sportsbooks, and expanded horse racing betting. 

For now, the question remains whether legislators can overcome decades of gridlock and give voters a chance to decide.