As the state gets ready for its first-ever online betting experience, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission reached a major milestone this week when they met to discuss the range of gambling possibilities allowed for the 2017 Super Bowl.
In anticipation of the approaching Super Bowl weekend, Massachusetts is being highlighted for its first-ever internet betting initiative. The Commission considered whether extra wagering regulations were necessary because of the high-profile event, especially with regard to prop bets, which are wagers on outcomes of the game other than the score at the end.
Andrew Steffen, Operations Manager for the Commission’s Sports Wagering Division, elaborated on the diverse prop bets available to online users. These include predictions on the length of the longest drive, time of first possession, occurrence of an onside kick, and the likelihood of overtime or a safety.
Commissioners made crucial decisions regarding the scope of permitted bets, opting to exclude wagers on certain Super Bowl traditions. Notably, bets on the coin toss, Gatorade color, and length of the national anthem were not authorized, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to responsible and regulated betting practices.
The three casinos in the state of Massachusetts started providing betting services more than a year ago, marking the start of the state’s sports betting venture. This significant event came after sports betting was approved by law the previous summer, opening the door for a regulated gambling environment.
While internet sports betting didn’t launch until March of last year, it did so in time for the Super Bowl, indicating a slow shift in the state’s betting environment. During Super Bowl weekend, Massachusetts is welcoming internet betting for the first time, which is a big step forward for the state’s casino sector and customer involvement.