Legal Status
Sports betting is legal in the state of Louisiana but has yet to launch.
Legislative Progress
Like with many states, the process began with the question being put to the voters in November 2020. But it did not end with their vote of approval. Once there was statewide approval, it was up to each respective parish (or county) to vote on whether it wanted legal sports betting.
When all was said and done, 55 of Louisiana’s 64 parishes voted to legalize sports betting, in-person/retail and online.
After getting the approval from the people, the legislature got to work on the necessary legislation. And the two key bills were both passed by the legislature and signed by the governor.
Casino Participation
There are currently 19 commercial casinos in Louisiana, 14 riverboat casinos, four racino horse tracks, and one land-based casino (Harrah’s located in the middle of New Orleans). All 19 will be able to apply for a sports betting license which will also qualify them for two online (skins) or online partners.
But since seven companies own the 19 casinos, it is unlikely they are going to use every online skin.
Role of the Lottery
Louisiana does have a lottery which will receive the 20th license of the 20 the legislation has approved. The Lottery’s license will act as a mobile license and allow for kiosks to be placed in bars and restaurants.
Professional Sports Team Involvement
With 19 of the state’s 20 licenses going to casinos and the remaining one going to the state lottery, it does not look like the New Orleans Saints or Pelicans will be involved with Louisiana’s sports betting industry.
Licensing
There will be 20 licenses for sports betting. Holder of the license will also have two skins for online sports betting partners. But, unlike many states, the licenses will be limited to the 19 casinos in Louisiana and the state lottery.
Casinos will have to pay a $250,000 application fee and then another $500,000 for the license (which will be good for five years). The state will be taking net proceeds at two different rates — 10 percent for bets placed in casinos/retail establishments and 15 percent for those placed online or via mobile devices.
Expected Live Date
An official launch date has not been set, but officials have said they hope to have it in place by mid-to-late September, making it available for the majority of this NFL season.
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