Massachusetts to Reopen Applications for Sports Betting Licenses
Massachusetts Gaming Commission to Resume Sports Betting License Applications
On Thursday, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) unanimously decided with a 5-0 vote to reopen the application process for companies interested in obtaining sports betting licenses in Massachusetts.
Renewed Interest Spurs Application Reopening
This decision was driven primarily by bet365’s recent request to apply for a statewide mobile sports betting license. Despite some legal uncertainties surrounding prediction markets in the state, bet365, a UK-based operator, is seeking a “Category 3” license, which would allow it to offer online sports betting throughout Massachusetts.
Bet365’s move comes shortly after Massachusetts lawmakers chose to delay discussions on legislation to legalize online casinos until 2027. This delay did not diminish interest from gaming companies eager to enter the market.
MGC Chair Jordan Maynard expressed optimism about the ongoing interest from operators willing to comply with state regulations and taxation, calling it a positive sign for the legal sports betting landscape in Massachusetts.
It is notable that this is bet365’s second attempt to gain entry into the Massachusetts market after online sports betting became legal in 2023. Previously, they attempted to enter through a partnership with Raynham Park, a wagering facility near Boston. Though that effort was abandoned, bet365 has since expanded into other states and currently operates in sixteen jurisdictions.
Next Steps for Application Process
The MGC staff has proposed setting a timeline for accepting new applications at an upcoming public meeting. This would be followed by issuing a “Notice of Intent” to gauge the level of interest among potential applicants.
If the number of applications for Category 3 mobile sportsbook licenses exceeds the number of available licenses, the Commission will need to create a competitive evaluation process. Currently, no such formal process exists in Massachusetts regulations because there were fewer applicants than licenses during the first application round.
Some commissioners, including Eileen O’Brien, have raised concerns about reopening applications without fully understanding the economic impacts and whether applicants like bet365 would be willing to invest in retail sportsbook operations alongside mobile betting.
Ultimately, the Commission agreed to proceed with reopening the application window and will assess potential impacts as applications are reviewed. However, a specific timeline for when applications will open has not yet been announced.
Recent Regulatory Actions Against Sportsbooks
In related news, the MGC recently issued fines to five major sportsbook operators for non-compliance issues, including allowing prohibited wager types, signaling the Commission’s ongoing commitment to maintaining regulatory standards in the state’s sports betting market.
