Two New Sports Betting Bills Submitted for 2024 Legislative Session in Missouri

Missouri representatives have filed two new bills to legalize sports betting in the Show-Me state. The new proposals are being pushed by the Missouri Sports Betting Coalition, which has been behind several other failed sports betting initiatives in the state. The bills would legalize the industry and allow riverboat casino operators to partner with online sportsbooks.

While there is a lot of support for these new proposals, which are expected to pass in the House, few expect them to be signed into law.

The reason for that is State Senator Denny Hoskins, who has refused to support the bill until his requirements are included. The Missouri legislator has received donations from video lottery terminal companies and is pushing to have them legalized along with sports betting.

There is little to no support for legalizing the slot-like games Hoskins is pushing for, so the State Senator has filibustered past sports betting initiatives. While there are others who don’t support sports betting, Hoskins has been seen as the most significant reason the industry has yet to be legalized.

While Hoskins is behind one of the current initiatives, it includes language that would also legalize the video lottery terminal machines, meaning it will likely be rejected. Hoskins has stood firm by his decision to block any sports betting bills that do not include these machines, meaning we are unlikely to see sports betting legalized in 2024.

Pressure Could Mount on Hoskins

While he has firmly opposed sports betting, things will get more challenging for Hoskins in 2024. One reason is that public support for legalization remains high, especially since the tax revenue generated will be used to improve the state’s school systems. Since Hoskins's name takes center stage in this battle, it could force the elected official to cave.

Another factor that could force Hoskins to drop his opposition is the money pouring over state lines. Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Arkansas have all legalized some form of sports betting, leading Missouri residents to cross state lines to place their bets. That revenue is going to neighboring states, and it is a significant number. 

While Hoskins is standing firm now, these factors could force him to fold soon.