Odds for Passage Remain Low
Georgia has seen sports betting legislation proposed over the years, but none has come close to becoming law. The conservative state has struggled with the morality of sports betting given the rise in problem gambling.
Several groups across the state have testified before the state legislature on the dangers of problem gambling. They have made powerful arguments and warned of the damage that will be done to the state’s residents. This was a big reason why the state Senate rejected similar proposals to legalize sports betting last week.
Bill Would Only Legalize Online Betting
One of the most significant issues in legalizing sports betting in Georgia is the need for a constitutional amendment. This sets a higher bar and has led to past bills to legalize a few forms of gambling to avoid repeating the struggles in the state legislature on each.
This issue has led the recent House proposals to focus only on online sports betting. While this could lose some supporters who back other gambling industries, the hope is that lawmakers who have been on the fence will be willing to support the bills.
Public Support Hasn’t Swayed Opponents
While Georgia’s lawmakers are still split on sports betting, residents have been eager to legalize the industry. A poll by the University of Georgia found that over 60% of residents support legal online sports betting.
In addition to those looking for legalization, even more want the right to vote on the issue. During the 2024 Republican Primary, over 80% of voters signaled that the public should be allowed to decide on sports betting.
These numbers have swayed many lawmakers, but that could change. Several will be up for re-election in 2026, where sports betting could become a key issue.
