A recent poll conducted by Emerson College and The Hill reveals that Missouri residents are split on the issue of sports betting. The survey, which polled 1,000 registered voters from June 17 to June 19, found that 38.3% support legalizing sports betting, 35.4% oppose it, and 26.3% are undecided. These findings differ from previous surveys, where support for sports betting was higher. Efforts to legalize sports betting in Missouri have been hindered by Senator Denny Hoskins, who has linked betting legalization to the legalization of video lottery terminals. Casinos in the state are against VLTs as they believe it threatens their business. Senator Hoskins has blocked several bills supported by casinos and professional teams. However, with Hoskins term-limiting out, professional sports teams have taken matters into their own hands, filing an initiative proposal to legalize both online and retail sports betting. Another political action committee backed by industry giants like FanDuel and DraftKings has also submitted signatures for a similar initiative. GeoComply, a company used by sportsbooks, has reported high demand for sports betting in Missouri, with millions of attempted bets blocked during the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl win. The issue is expected to appear on the November ballot pending verification of the submitted signatures. The fluctuating poll results indicate a significant interest in sports betting among voters but with divided opinions.
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