Missouri Launches Sports Betting Application Process as Dec. 1 Deadline Approaches
JEFFERSON CITY — Missouri regulators officially opened the application process for sports betting on Thursday, aiming to implement a voter-approved law by the December 1 deadline. The Missouri Gaming Commission has approved rules to facilitate wagering both at the state’s 13 casinos and near major sports stadiums, as well as online.
The application forms went live this week, with the commission targeting August 30 to finalize all regulatory parameters. The move to legalize sports betting gained traction after Missouri voters narrowly sanctioned it in November, sparking hopes for a launch before the football season or the conclusion of baseball.
However, in a recent development, Secretary of State Denny Hoskins denied the commission’s request for emergency rulemaking, complicating the timeline. Hoskins has previously stalled sports betting legislation by advocating for its linkage to bills that would legalize slot machines outside of casinos.
Under the newly approved regulations, licenses will be granted for in-person betting at casinos and within designated districts near significant sports venues like Busch Stadium. Additionally, major sports teams can license branded online platforms, with two online-only licenses expected to be awarded, potentially to companies such as FanDuel.
To remain on schedule for a December launch, physical sportsbook applications must be submitted by September 12. Online-only applications are due by July 15, with a public hearing set for August 13. The commission intends to select the two online licensees by August 15, although they will not commence betting until the broader regulations are finalized on November 30.
As Missouri races to establish its sports betting framework, stakeholders are keenly watching the process unfold.
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