Sports Betting Expands Across US States, Offering Varied Options and Regulations

Sports betting has become increasingly accessible in the United States, with states like Kentucky and Illinois establishing mature markets for both online and retail wagering. These states offer residents a variety of licensed sportsbooks and betting options, though regulations and specific rules can differ.

Kentucky legalized sports betting when Governor Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551 into law on March 31, 2023. Online operations commenced on September 28, 2023, under the governance of the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation. Currently, nine online sportsbooks and 12 retail locations operate within the state. Residents must be 21 years or older to place wagers. While betting on college sports is permitted, wagers on player props for in-state college teams are prohibited. Retail betting is available at locations such as Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ellis Park Racing & Gaming in Henderson, and The Red Mile in Lexington.

In Illinois, sports betting has been legal since June 28, 2019, with mobile sports betting launching in 2020. The Illinois Gaming Board oversees the industry, which includes 10 legal online sportsbook apps. Similar to Kentucky, bettors must be at least 21 years old and physically present within the state to place a wager. Illinois law prohibits betting on any in-state college team, regardless of where the game is played, and also restricts college player props. Retail sportsbooks are spread across the state, including locations like Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney, and Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino in East Peoria.

Both states feature popular online sportsbooks such as FanDuel, BetMGM, bet365, Fanatics Sportsbook, and theScore Bet. These platforms offer various welcome promotions, including profit boosts, bet-and-get offers, and deposit matches, designed to attract new users. Features often highlighted include user-friendly interfaces, competitive odds, live betting options, and mobile app functionality. Some platforms offer unique features like an "Edit My Bet" option, allowing users to alter wagers after they have been placed.

Residents can sign up for these services by downloading the chosen sportsbook app, providing personal information for verification, depositing funds, and then placing their first wager. Geolocation technology is employed to ensure that all wagers are placed within the state's legal boundaries.

For individuals seeking assistance with problem gambling, both Kentucky and Illinois provide resources. These include helplines such as 1-800-GAMBLER and the National Problem Gambling Helpline, along with organizations like Gam-Anon and Gamblers Anonymous.