Regulated online sportsbooks are coming soon to the state of Kansas.
On Thursday, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, put her signature on the state’s sports betting bill, which will allow both in-person and online betting.
Sportsbooks are expected to launch later this year during the upcoming college and NFL football seasons. Each of the state’s four casinos can have in-person wagering and up to three online sports betting partners, otherwise known as skins. Some of the top brands are expected to enter the market.
“Legalizing sports betting will bring more revenue to our state and grow our economy,” Kelly said in a statement. “This is another mechanism that casinos, restaurants, and other entertainment venues can now utilize to attract Kansans to their establishments.”
Sports betting kiosks are allowed at a wide range of establishments.
“I was excited to pass sports wagering in Kansas, it’s something that Kansans are already doing, and it will bring additional tax revenue to our state to help with our needs,” said Sen. Rob Olson. “My constituents have pushed for this legislation for years, and now, the next time we have a significant sporting event in our state, Kansans will be able to bet on their hometown team.”
According to the Associated Press, Americans have bet more than $125 billion on sports through regulated channels since the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the federal sports betting prohibition in 2018. Most sports betting states have an online component.
Sports betting is now legal in 35 states following Kansas’ entry.
