A Georgia House committee took a significant step on Wednesday, advancing legislation to legalize digital-only sports betting with a higher tax rate. Lawmakers increased the proposed tax on wagering revenue to 24%, aiming to generate more funds for education programs. The bills now head to the rules committee, with hopes of making it to the House floor before the crucial crossover deadline on Thursday.
Lawmakers Push for Higher Tax to Boost Education Funding
The initial proposal set the tax rate at 20%, but House Bill 686 raised it to 24% through a voice vote. The extra revenue is earmarked for the state’s universal pre-K education and HOPE scholarship programs.
State Representative Sam Park, who introduced the amendment, underscored the financial benefits, saying 85% of the first $150 million in sports betting tax revenue would be allocated to these educational initiatives. Lawmakers see this as an opportunity to support students while expanding Georgia’s gambling industry.
Online Casino Gaming Rejected Amid Sports Betting Debate
While online sports betting gained momentum, an effort to add online casino gaming to the proposed ballot measure was struck down. Some lawmakers saw it as a step too far, preferring to focus on sports wagering for now.
The debate over casino gaming reflects broader concerns about gambling expansion in Georgia. Opponents worry about potential social issues, while supporters argue that regulated online gambling could bring additional revenue. For now, the committee decided to keep the focus solely on sports betting.
What the Proposed Sports Betting Market Would Look Like
If the legislation clears all hurdles, Georgia voters would see digital sports betting on the November 2026 ballot. If approved, the market would launch on July 31, 2027, creating an open and competitive industry. The Georgia Lottery Corporation would oversee the system, ensuring regulatory compliance.
Here’s what the framework includes:
- Georgia’s professional sports teams, including those linked to Augusta National Golf Club, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and the PGA Tour, would be eligible for licenses.
- Seven additional standalone licenses would be made available.
- The Georgia Lottery Corporation would have the option to run its own digital sports betting platform.
The plan aims to balance competition while keeping oversight under a single regulatory body.
What’s Next for the Bill?
The legislation now moves to the rules committee, which decides whether it will reach the House floor for a vote. With the crossover deadline looming on Thursday, lawmakers face a tight timeline.
If the House passes the bill, it will then head to the Senate for further debate. A constitutional amendment would require voter approval, meaning Georgia residents will ultimately have the final say on whether online sports betting becomes legal in the state.
The push for legal sports betting reflects growing momentum nationwide, with more states embracing gambling as a source of revenue. Georgia, one of the last holdouts in the Southeast, is now closer than ever to joining the trend.
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