It is unlikely that Rhode Island mobile sports betting will be available until the year’s end. Nevertheless, it is highly probable that Massachusetts residents will travel across state borders to use the RI Lottery mobile sports betting app before being able to utilize it within their own homes.
Earlier this year, the Rhode Island Legislature gave its approval for the introduction of mobile sports betting. However, according to a reliable source, the intention is to enable customers to place bets remotely through the state’s lottery-operated sports betting system by the fourth quarter of 2019.
This implies that the commencement of the New England Patriots’ season will probably occur before the introduction of mobile sports betting in Rhode Island. The NFL season commences in September, marking the end of the third quarter of the year.
Rhode Island retail sports betting
In late November, Twin River Lincoln and Twin River Tiverton in Rhode Island initiated their retail sports betting operations. The day-to-day management of these betting activities is handled by International Game Technology (IGT), a trusted partner of the RI Lottery, along with William Hill US.
One reason for the shortfall in projected revenues is the delayed launch. Governor Gina Raimondo has additionally emphasized the significance of mobile operations for generating actual profits in sports betting.
In March, Rhode Island’s sports betting operations achieved a remarkable milestone by generating a record-breaking $23.6 million in bets.
Twin River welcomes mobile sports betting
Patti Doyle, spokesperson for Twin River, expressed their enthusiasm for the inclusion of a mobile sports betting product, subsequent to the approval of the RI Legislature.
We appreciate the chance to provide our customers with a more convenient way to enjoy our sports betting feature. Apart from placing bets at the Sportsbook Bar & Grill in Twin River, Lincoln, and other terminals across the casino floors at both Rhode Island venues, our customers now have the option to do so through a mobile app. We are excited to collaborate with the State, the Division of Lotteries, and our partners as we introduce this new product.
Nevertheless, it seems that they will need to exercise patience as they await the opportunity to place bets on mobile devices within the state.
Sports betting stalls in Massachusetts
However, recent indications suggest that the RI Lottery mobile sports betting app will be launched much earlier than any similar app in neighboring Massachusetts.
Five bills were introduced in January of this year by several Massachusetts senators and Governor Charlie Baker, aiming to legalize and tax sports betting. These bills seek to allow wagers on professional sports, both online and at casinos in Massachusetts.
In 2019, it seemed that the Massachusetts Legislature had prioritized placing MA sports betting at the forefront of its agenda. Currently, the Senate committee is actively examining those five bills.
Contrary to popular belief, the recently revealed state budget of $42.7 billion by House Democratic leaders this month disproves this notion.
The anticipated $35 million in revenue from sports betting in the next fiscal year, which the Gov. Baker administration expected, is not included in that budget.
According to Speaker Robert DeLeo, it is evident that House Democrats in Massachusetts intend to adopt a more gradual approach towards sports betting.
In my opinion, extensive discussion will be necessary for this matter. While I acknowledge its potential as a significant revenue stream, I believe that executing it might not be as straightforward as some individuals perceive.
At present, it is highly probable that the launch of mobile sports betting in Rhode Island will occur before any other developments. This will ensure that the revenue generated from Massachusetts residents placing sports bets remains within the hands of their neighboring states, particularly those to the Southwest.
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