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Rather of introducing stand-alone legislation, the local council is thinking of using a budget bill to incorporate competitive provisions in an effort to broaden the online sports betting scene in the District of Columbia.
The D.C. council discussed a budget-related measure with changes during a recent meeting; one of the amendments sought to stop the district’s sports betting competition from growing. The amendment was rejected by the majority of members, indicating a possible change from a single-operator paradigm to a more competitive market.
FanDuel currently holds a monopoly as the sole online sportsbook operator in most of the district. The proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Support Act of 2024 includes provisions from the Sports Wagering Amendment Act of 2024, aiming to open up the market to multiple operators.
The legislation would enable current operators, restricted to professional sports venues and their immediate surroundings, to expand their reach to most parts of the district, excluding other sports venues and federal properties. This move could pave the way for operators like BetMGM and Caesars Sportsbook to increase their presence in D.C.
The bill also introduces a new license class for operators to partner with local sports teams, offering widespread wagering options across the district.
While D.C.’s legal sports betting market is relatively small, some council members see an opportunity to enhance revenue and provide more choices for consumers, especially following the lackluster performance of GambetDC, which was replaced by FanDuel.
The budget bill’s ratification opens the door to the prospect of a more competitive sports betting industry notwithstanding obstacles.
Some council members are against the motion because they have reservations about the legislative process. Zachary Parker, a council member, objected to the budget bill’s inclusion of sports betting measures as opposed to separate legislation.
Parker’s proposal was rejected by Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie, who is the author of the independent Sports Wagering proposal Act. McDuffie emphasized the need of competition and income production.
In response to questions about possible harm to small businesses and revenue delays, McDuffie said that safeguards are in place to guarantee timely service delivery and protect small enterprises.
Parker’s amendment was rejected in spite of the discussion, and the measure was approved by a unanimous vote, moving it forward for more consideration.