Arizona considers sports betting expansion bill

Momentum is building for Arizona Governor Doug Ducey’s plan to introduce sports betting in the Grand Canyon state. A new bill proposed in the state house would allow online wagering, fantasy sports contests and keno games.

The bill, put forward by Rep. Jeff Weninger, would specifically allow these offerings from off-track betting locations and social clubs, like the American Legion. It comes as Ducey is working on a deal to allow sports betting at tribal casinos and venues owned by professional sports teams.

With a very Republican talking point, Weninger explained the benefits of his bill. “With that comes tax revenue without raising taxes, and allows us to keep our tax rates low,” Weninger said.

The bill takes into account Ducey’s push as well, allowing 10 licenses to go to por sports teams, like the Phoenix Coyotes, Arizona Diamondbacks and Arizona Cardinals, but could also be extended to pro golf and racing. Licenses would also be made available to the two dozen tribal casinos in the state.