Louisiana Gaming Control Board is looking for a way to speed sports gambling in the state. On Thursday, the Board approved emergency rules that will see sports gambling begin.
Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns affirmed sports betting in the state could be coming soon than previously expected.
“This has been the No.1 question asked of me: When is sports betting coming? We are behind our neighbor in Mississippi, but we’re going to try to catch up quickly.”
Mississippi is home to 26 commercial casinos, and on-site sports betting is legal. Louisiana approved sports betting in 54 parishes. Governor John Bel Edwards (D) approved sports betting legislation this summer.
For legal sports betting to start in Louisiana, the Control Board must set regulations and taxation rules. Rules will enable bettors to wager in casino sportsbooks, bars, restaurants, and also on personal devices like smartphones.
The emergency rules approved by Control Board are only valid for 180 days, afterward permanent rules to replace them.
Wagering is expected to begin at some point this season. Louisiana is home to popular teams that include NFL’s New Orleans Saints and LSU Tigers college team.
