Massachusetts Online Sports Betting Goes Live
The morning of March 10, 2023, will long be remembered by Massachusetts sports fans with the official launch of online sports betting. The state now becomes the latest in the US to offer legal online wagering. The MA betting industry is expected to generate significant revenue for operators and state tax coffers alike.
The launch followed the retail sports betting launch on January 31, which saw the opening of sportsbooks at the state’s three casinos. For that first month, Massachusetts offered only retail sports betting before Friday’s online sports betting opening.
In the end six online sportsbooks who had been granted temporary online sports betting licenses were ready for the off. They included top operators such as Caesars, DraftKings, BetMGM, FanDuel, Barstool and WynnBET. Betr and Betway are expected to join in the near future with Bally Bet also still waiting in the wings.
Economic Boost Expected
Massachusetts sports betting is projected to generate significant revenue. It is also hoped to shift action away from the state’s illegal sports betting market. Massachusetts residents can now use their mobile devices to place bets on their favorite teams and sporting events from anywhere within the state boundaries without risking their funds on shady offshore sites.
Another benefit being touted by proponents of the new law is that regulation will create job opportunities and contribute to the growth of the state’s economy.
Additionally, fears that online sportsbooks would erode business at the state’s retail sportsbooks have been largely allayed. If the pattern follows other states, retail sportsbooks can in fact expect to see an increase in revenue. Online sports betting simply generates enough extra interest in betting that brick and mortar operators benefit too.
MA Responsible Gambling
To ensure responsible gambling, Massachusetts has established measures to protect players. The state has a self-exclusion program that allows players to exclude themselves from all online sportsbooks. Additionally, the state has helplines and counseling services for those at most risk of developing a gambling problem.
With the launch of six online sportsbooks, Massachusetts residents can now bet on their favorite sports and teams from the comfort of their homes or on-the-go using their mobile devices. As online sports betting in Massachusetts finds its feet, attention turns to what state will be next to join the action.