Department of Gaming updates timeline for Limited Operator’s License for Arizona sports betting.
We now have a more defined timeline for when the Arizona Department of Gaming will release its limited event wagering operator’s licenses.
The department revealed a blueprint on Friday, which outlines a two-week period for the ADG to review application materials before notifying selected applicants on Jan. 24.
The department’s license review process will be completed on January 21, providing eight business days for consensus to be achieved.
The department has postponed the original deadline of Nov. 22 for operators to submit applications for the 10 licenses available to Dec. 30.
The restricted licenses allow racetrack enclosures or off-track betting locations that hold permits from the Arizona Department of Racing to provide in-person sports betting, provided they are situated at a minimum distance of five miles from tribal gaming facilities, event wagering venues, or other limited event wagering operators.
Casino Arizona betting apps are not permitted for use by limited license holders.
What are the qualifications for a Limited License?
Turf Paradise Racing in Phoenix, a prominent organization, sought a limited license but was refused by the ADG. Consequently, they filed a lawsuit against the state in August.
The horse racing track filed a complaint in Maricopa County Superior Court in late August. In November, Turf Paradise announced its plan to apply for a limited event license on yengols.com.
“We view this as an opportunity to explore the world of sports betting,” stated Turf Paradise General Manager Vincent Francia in a recent interview with yengols.com on Nov. 10. “I want to make it clear that we are actively seeking legal pathways to be part of the first group approved for sports betting. Our commitment to this goal remains unwavering.”
Rillito Park Race Track in Tucson and Arizona Downs in Prescott Valley, along with Turf Paradise, are eligible to apply for limited sports gambling through /go-bet/ in Arizona due to meeting the required qualifying standards set by the department.
The Cochise County Horse Racing Commission and the Santa Cruz County Fair in Sonoita are the only other horse racing facilities in Arizona that are associated with county fairs.
It is not clear if either of those entities has requested a license to operate limited event wagering.
To apply for a limited event wagering operator’s license, facilities needed to pay a $1,000 application fee, a $1,000 initial license fee, and a $5,000 annual renewal fee.
At this time, all applicants are anxiously awaiting a final decision on licenses, which is expected to be announced by the end of the month.
Author
Peterson Christopher, with over seven years of experience covering sports and sports betting in Arizona, has been named the lead writer at yengols.com. He has also contributed to ArizonaSports.com, the Tucson Weekly, and the Green Valley News in the past.
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