Can You Sports Bet in South Dakota?
Yes, sports betting is legal in South Dakota, but with limitations. Retail sportsbooks are operational in Deadwood casinos, but online sports betting is not yet permitted statewide.
South Dakota Sports Betting Laws and Regulations
South Dakota’s journey to legal sports betting began with a two-step process. In November 2020, voters approved a constitutional amendment (SJR 501) allowing sports wagering, but restricted it to within the city limits of Deadwood, similar to existing gambling laws.
Following the amendment’s passage, the legislature passed Senate Bill 44 in early 2021, which Governor Kristi Noem signed into law. This legislation set the framework for retail sportsbooks within Deadwood casinos.
Currently, online sports betting remains illegal in South Dakota. While a bill (SJR 502) was introduced in 2022 to authorize a referendum on statewide mobile sports betting٫ it failed to pass the House.
The South Dakota Commission on Gaming oversees all legal gambling activities in the state, including sports betting. The minimum age to participate is 21, and betting on collegiate events is permissible. However, wagering on in-state college teams or individual player prop bets in college games is prohibited.
The legal framework for gambling, including sports betting, is detailed in the South Dakota Codified Laws, Chapters 21-6, 22-5, and 42-7B. These laws strictly prohibit any unlicensed gambling activities within the state.
Available Sports Betting Options
As of today, South Dakota offers a limited range of sports betting options, confined solely to retail sportsbooks within the city of Deadwood. Since the legalization of sports wagering in 2021, numerous casinos in Deadwood have opened fully operational sportsbooks, allowing bettors to place wagers on a variety of professional and collegiate sports.
However, online sports betting within the state remains illegal. This restricts residents and visitors to placing bets in person at the designated Deadwood casinos. While daily fantasy sports platforms like PrizePicks operate legally in South Dakota, they don’t offer traditional fixed-odds sports betting.
Bettors hoping for a wider selection, such as mobile betting apps or online sportsbooks, will be disappointed. Currently, no domestic online sports betting platforms are authorized to operate within South Dakota.
The current landscape leaves residents with limited options, primarily focused on the retail sportsbooks in Deadwood. The future expansion of sports betting, particularly regarding online or mobile platforms, remains uncertain pending further legislative action.
Benefits of Sports Betting in South Dakota
While South Dakota’s sports betting landscape remains limited, the legalization of retail sportsbooks in Deadwood has brought about certain benefits for the state and its residents.
First and foremost, the presence of legal sports betting provides a new avenue for entertainment and recreation within the state. Sports enthusiasts can now engage with their favorite teams and leagues in a more immersive way, adding an extra layer of excitement to game days.
Moreover, the legalization has generated a new revenue stream for South Dakota. Taxes collected from sports betting activities contribute to state coffers, potentially funding essential public services or infrastructure projects. This additional revenue source can benefit the state’s overall economic well-being.
Additionally, the regulated sportsbooks in Deadwood provide a safe and controlled environment for individuals to participate in sports wagering. This reduces the risks associated with unregulated offshore betting sites or illegal bookmaking operations.
However, the current limitations, particularly the lack of online betting, restrict the potential benefits. Expansion into online platforms could offer greater convenience for bettors, broader revenue opportunities, and increased economic stimulation across the state.
Future of Online Sports Betting in South Dakota
The future of online sports betting in South Dakota remains uncertain. While retail sportsbooks are up and running in Deadwood, efforts to expand wagering statewide to include online platforms have faced roadblocks.
Previous attempts to legalize online sports betting through legislative action have fallen short. However, the growing popularity of mobile wagering in other states, coupled with the potential economic benefits, could prompt renewed interest in expanding online gambling options.
Advocates argue that online sports betting would generate significant tax revenue for South Dakota, potentially funding education, infrastructure projects, or other state programs. They also emphasize the convenience and accessibility online platforms offer, allowing bettors to participate from anywhere within state lines.
However, opponents express concerns about potential increases in gambling addiction and the need for robust regulatory measures to protect consumers. The outcome of future legislative sessions will determine whether South Dakota joins the growing number of states embracing the digital evolution of sports betting.