With more than seven million residents in the state of Washington, and 700,000 of which residing in Seattle, the legalization of sports betting could mean serious revenue for the state. Currently, sports betting isn’t allowed in the state of Washington, and it doesn’t seem to be legalized anytime soon.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court decided to lift the almost 30-year-old ban on sports betting under PASPA, governing officials have been weighing in on the matter, it seems that the delay that is happening in many states is for the same reason.
Many gambling interests and regulations in the states are in the tribal casino market, and they have a stake in all gambling activities – and some states have hit roadblocks reachings agreements with the local tribes.
Senator Michael Baumgartner has expressed his interest and support to the legalization of sports betting, and he imagines that it will be a few years before it happens, but expects it to happen nonetheless.
Legal gambling avenues in Washington currently fall into the following categories: tribal casinos, poker, horse racing, and the lotto. There are nearly 100 casinos in the state, which is very high, considering many states have none, or very few. The local Native American tribes manage and own 30 of those casinos, mainly located toward the western side of the state.
Their only racetrack, Emerald Downs, is located in Auburn, and offers live thoroughbred racing all spring and summer long. There are several off-track betting locations in the state where bettors can visit to place a wager on a horse as well.
Can I bet on Sports in Washington?
They are still waiting on the green light for legalization from the state’s governing bodies, so technically no. Even daily fantasy betting is banned, and will likely remain banned until some sort of new law is formed around sports betting legalization.
How can Washington residents bet on sports? Online sportsbooks!
There is no law in Washington that prohibits online sportsbooks, making them not illegal – just unmentioned. Many states have dated laws around gambling, that doesn’t include online betting, so you are able to bet online without breaking any laws.
Online sportsbooks are convenient because you can bet on sports from your smartphone or laptop, from just about anywhere. You can reap plenty of special benefits like a variety of deposit options, hefty sign up bonuses and great odds selection.
Betting on Washington Sports Teams
If you’re an NFL fan from Washington, you’re probably a Seattle Seahawks fan. They joined the NFL as an expansion team in the 70’s and are the only NFL franchise located in the Pacific Northwest. They’ve made three Super Bowl appearances since their inception, and won their first title in 2013.
If baseball is more your style, you can catch the Seattle Mariners from the American League of the MLB. Another expansion team based out of Seattle, they also came to town in the 70’s and had a rough start with no winning record until the early 90’s. They have yet to win a World Series title, nor have they played in the World Series.
Because Seattle is basically the home of expansion teams, the NHL recently announced a new franchise in Seattle, set to enter the league in 2021.
What to look for in an online sportsbook
We have a great selection of online sportsbook reviews, where you can find the right sportsbook based on your needs. You can look for criteria such as deposit options, bonus information and if a sportsbook is mobile friendly before you sign up – so you ensure you’re making the right decision based on your individual needs.
Check out our online sportsbook reviews and find a safe and secure place to bet.
