Betting, Casino Legalization in Georgia to Attract High-Profile Events

For more than five years, sports betting has been expanding across the United States. By now, the activity is available in nearly 40 states and an overwhelming majority offer not only retail but mobile sports betting options.

Lawmakers in different states saw the opportunity to benefit from additional tax revenue derived from wagering, which otherwise would go to unlicensed or black-market bookies. Similarly, casino gambling also provides great economic stimulus, especially for gambling hubs such as Las Vegas in Nevada and Atlantic City in New Jersey.

Senators Support the Expansion of Gambling in Georgia

A proposal seeking to expand gambling in Georgia is making its way in the state legislature. The bill, proposed by Sen. Brandon Beach, seeks to ask state residents for their vote for or against legal sports betting and casino gambling. This would be achieved through Senate Resolution 131, provided that the proposal receives approval by the General Assembly.

In a recent interview for The Center Square, Sen. Beach spoke about the benefits of legal betting and casino gambling. He said: “You can’t keep going back to the well all the time. You’ve got to have a little bit of money for the state to put in the game.” What’s more, the Senator added: “That’s one of the reasons I’ve been pushing casino gaming. I think that’d be a nice way to fund some of that.”

The effort to legalize casinos and sportsbooks is also backed by Senators Carden Summers, Lee Anderson and Billy Hickman. Senate Resolution 131 was discussed during a meeting with the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee. Sen. Beach acknowledged that legal betting could help bring big sports events to Georgia. Such include the recently hosted College Football Playoff National Championship that took place in Atlanta. In addition, Georgia will host the Super Bowl, one of the most-anticipated football events in the US, three years from now in 2028.

The Bill Proposes a Regulatory Framework, Taxation for Gambling and Sports Betting

Under the proposal, sports betting would be subject to a 20% tax on gross gaming revenue. Similar to other states, Georgia considers setting aside proceeds from gambling to treat at-risk and problem gambling, while encouraging the creation of a market that is fun and safe for the consumers.

The first $2 billion in tax revenue from casino gambling and sports betting would benefit counties across the state. After that, $500 million would aid local governments. Under Senate Resolution 131, a gambling regulator called the Georgia Gaming Commission, will be in charge of licensing and regulating such activities.

The proposal seeks to award a total of eight casino licenses. However, to do so, it must first gain approval from state lawmakers. Considering that this happens, Senate Resolution 131 will ask Georgia residents whether they support or oppose betting and casino gambling on a ballot in November 2026.