Phoenix, Ariz., has four major league sports teams (MLB’s Diamondbacks, NBA’s Suns, NFL’s Cardinals and NHL’s Coyotes) and one minor league racetrack (Turf Paradise). In legislation signed into law last week by Gov. Doug Ducey, the four pro sports teams were among those given the opportunity to buy a license to offer sports betting at their stadiums as well as operate a mobile sports betting platform.
The same legislation gave Turf Paradise, other tracks in the state and off-track betting facilities – along with fraternal organizations – the option to offer keno, a random numbers game offered by lotteries in many states.
The legislation did not address the state’s absurd advance-deposit wagering law that requires horse racing bets be made by calling in by telephone to wagering providers rather than using a computer or smartphone apps.
Historical horse racing language was removed from the gambling bill prior to passage.
Powerful native American tribes in Arizona also get to offer sports book and mobile sports wagering, as will NASCAR and PGA Tour events. Up to 10 licenses will be issued for sports organizations and 10 to tribes.
Through the legislation and a new compact negotiated by the Ducey administration, tribes – which operate 25 casinos in Arizona including seven in the Phoenix area – can expand their table game offerings and increase the number of slot machines. The compact permits four new casinos in the Phoenix area.
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