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Rhode Island sports betting has operated under a single-app setup for years, a structure that has drawn growing frustration from lawmakers and bettors alike. Now, state officials are taking concrete steps toward adding competition, even if the expansion remains limited.
Good to Know
Rhode Island Lottery confirmed plans to introduce a second online sports betting vendor in the Ocean State. The timeline would bring an additional sportsbook into the market and end the exclusive control held by International Game Technology.
IGT currently operates the only sports betting app in the state. The company recently secured a contract extension with the Lottery that runs through November 2028, even as criticism around performance and user experience continued.
Some bettors have raised concerns about app functionality and limited options under the current setup. Lawmakers also argue that the lack of competition pushes residents to place bets in neighboring states where more sportsbooks operate.
Calls for a broader market structure gained traction earlier after an independent review commissioned by the Lottery.
Before the IGT contract extension, the Lottery hired Spectrum Gaming Group to assess the sports betting landscape. The report, released May 1, recommended allowing as many as six sportsbook operators to operate in Rhode Island.
The findings added momentum to legislative efforts aimed at opening the market.
In June, the Senate approved a bill introduced by Frank Ciccone that sought to remove the monopoly structure and allow additional sportsbook licenses. The vote passed 30–2.
DraftKings backed the bill, pointing to potential gains in state tax revenue. IGT opposed the proposal, arguing the existing model delivered stronger results than critics claimed.
The effort stalled the following month after the House failed to schedule a vote.
After the bill collapsed, the Lottery issued a Request for Information to gauge market interest. Eight operators responded, including DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM.
Despite that response and the earlier recommendation for multiple operators, the Lottery opted to proceed with just one additional sportsbook. The selected operator will receive a five-year contract.
The plan allows for two total operators.
Potential bidders must apply by Feb. 19.
Officials chose a limited expansion despite earlier recommendations for broader competition.
Yes. IGT will remain active under its existing contract.