Active Washington Sportsbooks
Legal Washington Sports Betting
Washington State has a unique approach to sports betting, characterized by a focus on responsible gambling and a highly regulated market. Unlike many other states where online sports betting is widely accessible, Washington maintains a more conservative stance, reflecting the state’s commitment to minimizing gambling addiction and promoting safe betting practices. The legal framework allows sports betting only on the reservation lands of federally recognized Native American tribes, with a focus on in-person betting at tribal casinos.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Washington?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Washington, but with significant restrictions. It is only permitted on the reservation lands of federally recognized Native American tribes, and while both retail and online formats are available, the majority of sports betting in the state occurs in person. Online sports betting is limited to within the physical boundaries of tribal casinos, meaning bettors must be on-site to place bets online.
Washington Sports Betting Legislation Timeline
- March 2020: The Washington State Legislature passed HB 2638, legalizing sports betting on tribal lands. This legislation was a significant step toward regulated sports betting, with a strong emphasis on responsible gaming practices.
- March 25, 2020: Governor Jay Inslee signed HB 2638 into law, making sports betting legal on tribal lands. The law allows both retail and online sports betting but restricts online betting to tribal lands only.
- September 2021: The first legal sports bet in Washington was placed at Snoqualmie Casino, marking the official launch of sports betting in the state.