The MA legislature will return to work in mid-September.
We understand that there is ongoing discussion about the Senate acting on the House passed H 3977 bill, or the bill introduced by Senator Lesser in the coming weeks.
By way of background, on 7/22 the House passed H 3977 an amended sports wagering bill that adopts provisions from several other bill that have been considered.
The bill it creates 3 categories for licenses. Cat 1 (Casinos) would have 3 mobile brands, Cat 2 (OTB/Live Horse Tracks) would have 1 online brand, and then Cat 3 appears to be an untethered mobile license.
Other notable items include:
- Tax: 12.5% retail; 15% mobile; 1% tax paid to MA pro sports team facilities; can deduct promo play and fed excise taxes from AGR
- Fees: $100k application fee; $5m for 5-year license; Cat 3 licensees pay an additional $1m annual fee
- Official league data requirement is included for tier 2 wagers
- Requires a study to look at the feasibility of sports wagering kiosks at retail locations such as bars and restaurants and also a study to evaluate awarding licenses to sports teams.
It is expected that the Senate will seek to curtail the number of available licenses.
iDEA has engaged with lawmakers, but has not formally engaged through a local lobbyist.
We will be reaching out to key Senators next week.