Rhode Island considers legalizing sports betting on in-state college teams
A bill seeking to legalize wagering on Rhode Island collegiate teams is being considered in the State Senate, greatly expanding the state’s market if passed
Lawmakers in Rhode Island are considering a bill that would allow sports betting on in-state college teams, a practice that has been forbidden since sports betting was legalized in 2018.
The bill would expand the state’s market and allow Rhode Islanders to bet on college athletic events that take place in the state or in which any Rhode Island collegiate team participates, regardless of where it takes place.
The measure would also define a “collegiate tournament” and include pre-season invitationals, conference tournaments, and NCAA tournaments, such as March Madness. Senate President Dominick Ruggerio, who sponsored the original sports betting legislation, is seeking to amend the law and add the ability to bet on local collegiate teams.
The bill has passed the Senate Committee on Special Legislation and Veterans Affairs and is expected to go to the full Senate for a vote soon.
Ruggerio believes that the new proposal will raise revenue for the state and that iGaming will be a substantial revenue generator down the line.