The Push for Legalized Sports Betting in Missouri: Funding, Support, and the Upcoming Vote
As the state of Missouri gears up for its pivotal general election on November 5, the question of legalized sports betting looms large. With significant financial contributions from major players in the sports betting industry, especially FanDuel and DraftKings, the campaign for legalization is gaining traction. The stakes are high as voters prepare to decide the future of sports betting in the Show-Me State.
Funding the Movement
In a noteworthy recent development, FanDuel, under its parent company Betfair, has donated an impressive $4.6 million to the Winning for Missouri Education Campaign, which is dedicated to advocating for the legalization of sports betting. This latest contribution is part of a broader strategy that has seen FanDuel invest over $20 million into efforts aimed at securing sports betting’s place in Missouri.
Since early 2024, FanDuel and DraftKings have collectively funneled a staggering $40.7 million into promoting legalized sports betting in the state, as reported by the Missouri Ethics Commission. The financial backing underscores the commitment of these industry giants to make sports betting a reality in Missouri after years of legislative attempts that have repeatedly fallen flat.
The Proposed Legislation
Missouri voters will have the opportunity to weigh in on a constitutional amendment that, if approved, will allow each Missouri sports team and casino to operate retail and online sports betting. The framework proposed under this amendment would enable each team and land-based casino to apply for both a retail and an online sports betting license, paving the way for up to 19 retail and 21 online licenses statewide. Such legalization could not only revolutionize the state’s gaming landscape but also introduce new revenue streams for education and other public services.
Bipartisan Support Grows
One of the most encouraging aspects of the campaign is the growing bipartisan support for sports betting in Missouri. Recently, leading figures such as Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden (R-19) and Sen. Brian Williams (D-14) publicly endorsed the passage of Amendment 2, which aims to legalize sports betting. Their endorsement reflects a broader consensus in the state that supports the potential financial benefits of regulated sports betting.
In a recent advertisement from the Winning for Missouri Education campaign, spokesperson Jack Cardetti highlighted the economic ramifications of illegal betting, noting, “Right now, millions of dollars are leaving Missouri as people cross state lines to place bets. Amendment 2 will bring those dollars back home and ensure the tax revenue stays here, benefiting Missouri schools.” This appeal to both fiscal responsibility and educational funding resonates with a wide audience, enhancing the campaign’s appeal.
Additionally, endorsements have come from both gubernatorial candidates—Lieutenant Gov. Mike Kehoe (R) and House Minority Leader Crystal Quade (D)—as well as various civic organizations. Major newspapers, including The Kansas City Star and The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, have also backed the campaign, urging readers to vote "yes" on Amendment 2, further solidifying its legitimacy and support within the community.
Looking Ahead
With the election day approaching, the momentum for legalized sports betting in Missouri is undeniably strong. The combination of substantial funding from sports betting powerhouses, bipartisan endorsements from state leaders, and widespread media support means that this may be the best chance for fans and advocates of sports betting to witness a significant change.
As Missouri voters prepare to cast their ballots, the implications of their decision extend far beyond gaming. Approval of the amendment could bring significant educational funding, create jobs, and capitalize on a growing industry that has already changed the gaming landscape nationwide. The question remains: will the people of Missouri embrace this opportunity on November 5? The answer lies in the hands of the voters, and the world will be watching as they make their choice.
1
20
20
