Arizona set to launch fall sports betting; How did it reach this point?

Arizona is rapidly progressing towards the complete rollout of sports betting, with set target dates for this month. Let’s examine the evolution of Arizona’s sports betting industry leading up to this moment.

Early 2021

There have been several bills proposed regarding sports betting, and Governor Doug Ducey has mentioned the possibility of a new gaming compact in his State of the State address. This agreement could potentially bring in more revenue for both tribal nations and the state budget. Recent reports suggest that the governor has been in talks with tribes to expand gambling beyond tribal casinos, aiming to enhance state finances.

Ducey’s proposal involves broadening betting opportunities for professional and college sports, daily fantasy sports, and Keno. It also opens up the potential for additional tribal casinos to offer an expanded selection of games and betting choices, alongside their current monopoly in the state.

March 4

After passing its third reading in the state House, House Bill 2772 was approved by a vote of 48-12 with amendments and moved on to the state Senate. The bill received bipartisan backing, with nine Republicans and three Democrats voting against it. Once the governor signs it, the bill will go into effect immediately.

Rep. Jeff Weninger (R-Chandler) has introduced HB 2772, which would allow for online betting, daily fantasy sports wagering, and the addition of limited Keno games at off-track betting locations and social clubs like the American Legion and Elks Club.

April 12

Earlier today, the state Senate Committee on Rules advanced HB 2772, a bill to legalize event wagering and daily fantasy sports, to the full Senate. The bill was then approved by the state Senate with a 23-6-1 vote.

April 15

Ducey creates a historic moment by signing legislation for Arizona sports betting apps and fantasy sports at The Heard Museum in Phoenix.

Shortly after the agreement was signed, the Phoenix Suns and FanDuel announced a long-term market access partnership. FanDuel will serve as the Suns’ Official Sportsbook and Daily Fantasy Sports partner for multiple years. As part of the agreement, FanDuel will open a retail sportsbook within the Phoenix Suns Arena in time for the start of the 2021-22 NBA season.

May 24

The updated Arizona tribal-state gaming compact, signed by Governor Ducey and tribal leaders, has received official approval from the U.S. Department of Interior, completing an agreement to modernize gaming.

June 2

Sports betting in Arizona is scheduled to debut on September 9, aligning with the kickoff of the 2021 NFL season featuring a match between the Dallas Cowboys and the Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

June 14

The public will be able to review and offer feedback on the proposed regulations for sports betting in the state.

June 21

The public comment period will end in one week, following which the Arizona Division of Gaming (ADG) will enter an amendment period to address any required changes to the rules. The aim is to have the revised rules completed before the tentative start date of the NFL opener.

Sept. 9

The expected official commencement date for sports betting in Arizona.

Sept. 12

The Arizona Cardinals will start their season in Nashville against the Tennessee Titans.