Rhode Island Bill Proposes Expansion of In-State College Team Betting Opportunities
Rhode Island Bill Proposes Expansion of In-State College Team Betting Opportunities
Rhode Island lawmakers are considering a bill that would expand in-state college team betting opportunities. The bill, which was introduced by State Senator Frank Lombardi, would allow Rhode Island residents to bet on in-state college sports teams.
Currently, Rhode Island residents are not allowed to bet on in-state college sports teams. This means that if a Rhode Island resident wants to bet on the University of Rhode Island basketball team, they would have to travel to a neighboring state where sports betting is legal.
The proposed bill would change this by allowing Rhode Island residents to bet on in-state college sports teams at the state’s two casinos, Twin River Casino Hotel in Lincoln and Tiverton Casino Hotel in Tiverton.
The bill has received support from some lawmakers who believe that it will help boost revenue for the state’s casinos. However, the bill has also faced opposition from some who are concerned about the potential negative effects of gambling on college athletes.
Opponents of the bill argue that allowing betting on college sports could lead to increased pressure on college athletes and could potentially lead to match-fixing and other forms of corruption.
Proponents of the bill argue that it would provide a much-needed boost to the state’s economy, particularly during a time when many businesses are struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to allowing betting on in-state college sports teams, the bill would also allow for betting on professional sports teams and other sporting events.
If the bill is passed, Rhode Island would join a growing number of states that have legalized sports betting in recent years. Currently, 21 states and the District of Columbia have legalized sports betting.
Overall, the proposed bill has sparked a debate about the potential benefits and drawbacks of expanding sports betting in Rhode Island. While some believe that it could provide a much-needed boost to the state’s economy, others are concerned about the potential negative effects on college athletes and the integrity of college sports.