Senate Bill 592 Advances Online Sports Betting in Wisconsin

|
Senate Bill 592 Advances Online Sports Betting in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Senate Committee on Agriculture and Revenue approved Senate Bill 592, sponsored by Sen. Howard L. Marklein (R-17), by a 5-3 vote. The executive session took place on Thursday, Nov. 6, two days after the committee held a public hearing on the legislation.

The bill aims to legalize online sports betting in the state and moves forward with strong backing from Native American tribes and cautious optimism from major gambling operators.

Senate Bill 592: Key Provisions about Online Sports Betting

Senate Bill 592 outlines the regulatory framework for online sports betting in Wisconsin. It permits licensed operators to offer digital betting platforms to state residents. Importantly, the bill includes specific provisions supporting tribal casinos.

The legislation guarantees tribal participation in the online market while requiring agreements with the state. Tribes will benefit from revenue-sharing arrangements that help fund community programs.

Moreover, the bill also allows non-tribal operators to enter the market under strict regulations, ensuring fair competition while contributing fees to the state and tribal initiatives.

Lawmakers argue the measure could generate significant revenue and create a competitive market for US online sportsbooks. The bill also sets responsible gambling standards, including limits on betting and consumer protections.

Operator Concerns About Economic Feasibility

Despite tribal support, some major US online sportsbooks question the bill’s economic feasibility. Sports Betting Alliance (SBA) representative Damon Stewart was quick to note that online sports betting is a low-margin, capital-intensive business. 

Stewart questioned the proposed Hub-and-Spoke model the bill plans on implementing,

“Commercial operators cannot economically justify handing over 60% of revenue to an in-state entity just to operate in Wisconsin. As a result, local adults may not have access to the national sportsbook brands they see advertised on TV every day.”

Industry representatives warn that these conditions could limit competition and reduce consumer choice. Nevertheless, lawmakers and tribal leaders emphasize that the bill balances economic opportunity with protection for tribal gaming operations.

Supporters highlight the benefits of legal, regulated online betting, including tax revenue, consumer protections, and expanded entertainment options. By including both tribal and non-tribal operators, SB 592 aims to create a sustainable and competitive US online sportsbooks market.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, Wisconsin is poised to become a key example of how states can expand online sports betting while securing tribal support and promoting responsible gambling.