When will online sports betting launch in Idaho?
The landscape of online sports betting in Idaho remains uncertain as there has been no legislative progress indicating a potential launch date. Without movement at the legislative level, it’s challenging to estimate when, if ever, online sports betting will become available in the state.
Legal Betting Options in Idaho
Currently, there are no legal sports betting options accessible within Idaho. However, the state has several potential avenues to explore if it chooses to legalize sports betting in the future. One option is to integrate sports betting into the state’s lottery system, although this approach may limit potential tax revenues. Another possibility is to adopt an online-only format similar to Tennessee’s model, enabling the state to offer online sports betting promotions. Additionally, Idaho’s seven tribal casinos and gaming locations could potentially offer retail sports betting if regulations allow.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Idaho
Despite the absence of professional sports teams in Idaho, the Boise State Broncos, as the state’s only Division I FBS football team, command a significant following. The Broncos’ consistent participation in postseason college football bowls makes them a favored choice among local sports enthusiasts. However, betting on in-state college games, including Boise State, would require Idaho to permit such wagering, which some states have chosen to prohibit.
Furthermore, neighboring states boast prominent sports teams that could attract Idaho bettors, such as the MLB’s Seattle Mariners, the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers and Utah Jazz, the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights, and the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders and Seattle Seahawks.
Daily Fantasy Sports and Horse Racing
Regrettably, daily fantasy sports are prohibited in Idaho following Attorney General Lawrence Wasden’s determination that such contests constitute gambling under state laws. Consequently, major daily fantasy sports providers like DraftKings and FanDuel no longer accept players from Idaho.
On the other hand, horse racing enjoys legality in Idaho, with several tracks hosting races annually. Betting on horse racing is permitted, with the Greyhound Park & Event Center in Post Falls serving as the state’s sole simulcast facility. Advanced deposit wagering operators like TVG also accept customers from Idaho, enabling horse racing enthusiasts to place bets conveniently through various platforms.
Idaho Betting Timeline
- May 2016: Daily fantasy sports are outlawed in Idaho following negotiations with DFS providers.
- November 1992: Idaho’s constitutional amendment on casino gambling is approved, maintaining gambling’s illegality in the state.
- 1989: Idaho establishes its state lottery.
Idaho Sports Betting FAQ
No, sports betting is currently not legal in Idaho.
There are no physical locations within Idaho where sports betting is permitted.
No, mobile sports betting is not allowed in Idaho due to the lack of legal sports betting in the state.
While some online sportsbook operators claim to accept bets from across the US, including Idaho, these offshore platforms operate without US licensing. Therefore, bettors engaging with such platforms do not have consumer protections or legal recourse in case of disputes or closures.
For more insights into the world of sports betting, you can visit What is the easiest sport to bet on, where you can explore accessible and beginner-friendly betting options.
This comprehensive article provides an in-depth understanding of the current status of sports betting in Idaho, including potential future developments and key information for sports enthusiasts in the state.
