Alaska Considers New Online Sports Wagering Legislation

Alaska is preparing to take a bold step toward legalizing online sports betting with House Bill 145 (HB 145). Sponsored by Rep. David Nelson, the proposed legislation seeks to establish a regulated framework for mobile sports wagering, providing the state with a fresh revenue stream, enhancing consumer protection measures, and cracking down on overseas black market operators.

The Bill Introduces a Comprehensive Regulatory Framework

HB 145 outlines a stringent licensing process, ensuring that only reputable companies can offer their services in the state. Operators must submit an official application, undergo a broad criminal history record check, and pay a substantial $100,000 licensing fee. The Alaska Department of Revenue will oversee the licensing process and enforce regulatory compliance.

A mobile sports wagering license issued under this section grants a licensee the authority to conduct mobile sports wagering through any mobile application or digital platform approved by the commissioner.

HB 145

According to the proposed legislation, operators will be subject to a 20% tax on their adjusted gross revenue from sports wagering activities, securing valuable income for Alaska. Licensed companies must maintain transparent house rules, display responsible gambling messages, and actively prohibit individuals under 21 from engaging with their offerings. 

The new bill legalizes various forms of sports wagering, like single-game bets, parlays, teasers, in-game bets, prop bets, and futures. Bettors must be physically present in Alaska or select jurisdictions that have agreements with the state for cross-border gambling. This geo-fencing requirement will ensure continued compliance with state and federal laws.

Customer Safety Will Take Center Stage

HB 145 includes stringent enforcement provisions to maintain regulatory integrity. Licensees found violating the law could face fines up to $10,000 per offense, with serious or repeated failings leading to license suspension or revocation. The act also explicitly excludes licensees from municipal gaming taxes, streamlining financial obligations for operators.

The Department of Revenue will take inspiration from other successful US jurisdictions to implement fair regulatory guidelines regarding consumer protection, data security, and financial transparency. The bill will also enhance accountability by requiring operators to implement software to monitor wagering activity, detect suspicious behavior, and ban excluded individuals from betting.

If passed, HB 145 will take effect on 1 January 2026, with some provisions becoming effective immediately upon enactment. To guarantee a well-structured market launch, the Department of Revenue must ensure the state has at least three active licenses and give operators a warning of 14 days minimum before the official start date.