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As Senate Bill 386 being advanced by the Senate Economic Development and Tourism Committee, Georgia’s chances for sports gambling are once again in the limelight. Proponents contend that a statewide vote can introduce betting within the Georgia Lottery Corporation’s jurisdiction without the need for a constitutional change.
There has been both support and opposition to Senate Bill 386, which calls for the issuance of 16 sports betting licenses. The novel idea of the measure is to approve it without a constitutional change by obtaining a majority vote in each house and the signature of Governor Brian Kemp. Normally, a two-thirds majority in both the House and the Senate is needed to approve a constitutional change. This is followed by a statewide referendum to get public support.
Nick Fernandez of the Metro Atlanta Chamber expressed optimism, stating, “We believe this bill has brought a win for Georgia,” emphasizing support from Atlanta’s professional sports teams.
Interestingly, the bill gains some support from Democrats, crucial given that certain Republicans hold moral reservations about gambling. While this support seems promising, opponents warn of potential constitutional challenges. They argue that voters in 1992, when the constitution allowed a lottery, did not anticipate authorizing sports betting.
Republican Senator Clint Dixon defends the bill, highlighting that tax proceeds would contribute to prekindergarten classes and HOPE Scholarships. Dixon contends that, unlike a constitutional amendment, these designated uses align with voters’ intentions when approving the lottery in 1992.
However, critics, including Mike Griffin, a lobbyist for Georgia’s Southern Baptist churches, remain skeptical, asserting that this approach might be deemed unconstitutional.
Under Senate Bill 386, 20% of proceeds, after paying prizes to gamblers, would be allocated as taxes. Nationally, tax rates for sports betting vary from 6.75% in Iowa to 51% in states like Rhode Island and New York.
According to the measure, licenses would be distributed, with the Georgia Lottery obtaining a license directly. Eight licenses would be set aside for Georgia-based professional sports organizations, such as the Augusta National and PGA golf courses, the MLB’s Atlanta Braves, the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream, the MLS’s Atlanta United, and NASCAR’s Atlanta Motor Speedway.
The Georgia Lottery would allocate the final seven licenses, which are not associated with professional sports franchises. Opponents, on the other hand, highlight the possible drawbacks of gambling, painting it as a springboard for addiction and long-term financial losses.
The legal nuances and ethical issues surrounding sports betting in Georgia continue to influence the continuing discussion as the bill moves forward.