Delaware Sports Gambling Bill Shot Down By Lawmakers

Governor Jack Markell gave it his best effort. He wanted to secure revenue for the state so he offered up a Bill that would have legalized sports betting in Delaware.

It appeared as though the Bill had enough supporters and that sports betting could become a reality. On Tuesday night, however, the House of Representatives voted against the proposal. There were twenty-three votes in favor of the Bill, just two short of the necessary twenty-five.

"It may not have happened this time around," said observer Franklin Grey, "But if the vote was that close, there is a strong chance that the Bill will be modified and brought back to lawmakers in the near future."

The objections to the sports betting mainly came from Delaware's three racetrack casinos. They feared that any additional gambling options in the state would drive them out of business.

The NFL and the NCAA also lobbied against the sports betting. The NCAA went as far as to threaten Delaware that they would not be allowed to host post-season events should they legalize sports gambling. The NCAA held their Final Four this year in Detroit, Michigan, home to legalized casino gambling.

The proposal from Markell called for sports wagers in the form of parlay bets. That is when two or more teams are chosen, and all must win in order for the bettor to win the wager.

May 7, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
Submit News!