Minnesota elections may impact sports betting legislation

Upcoming elections in Minnesota could determine the future of sports betting regulation in the state. Currently, Minnesota remains one of the few U.S. states without legalized online sports betting or commercial retail sportsbooks. A legislative stalemate between the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party and the Republican Party has prevented a consensus on a regulatory framework.

The DFL generally supports a tribal-centric model that would limit mobile sports betting to tribal operators or their partners. Conversely, Republicans have largely favored a more expansive licensing model that includes horse tracks and charitable gaming groups. The outcome of the November 3 elections, which include all 134 House seats and 67 Senate seats, may provide one party with the majority needed to advance their specific vision for sports wagering.