The Wisconsin State Assembly took a major step toward expanding legalized sports wagering Thursday, passing legislation that would pave the way for mobile sports betting operated by the state’s federally recognized Native American tribes. The bill now moves to the State Senate for further consideration.
Assembly Bill 601 cleared the lower chamber on a voice vote, with little debate from lawmakers. Under the proposal, wagers placed anywhere in Wisconsin would be permitted so long as they are processed through sportsbook servers located on sovereign tribal land — a framework similar to the hub-and-spoke model upheld in other states.
While Assembly Bill 601 authorizes online wagering via tribal operators, it does not immediately create a commercial online sports betting market for national brands like DraftKings and FanDuel. Proponents argue the approach would update Wisconsin’s gambling laws, meet player demand, and broaden consumer protections.
Supporters maintain that many residents are already placing bets offshore or across state lines where mobile betting is legal, and that bringing those wagers into a regulated system could boost revenue for tribal partners and the state. Tribal leaders have actively backed the legislation, highlighting potential economic benefits for tribal communities.
Opposition has emerged from some advocacy groups and industry representatives — including the Sports Betting Alliance — who argue the tribal-only structure could limit competition and revenue potential compared with a broader commercial model.
The Assembly’s action comes as lawmakers wrap up their legislative session. If the Senate approves the bill and Gov. Tony Evers signs it, implementation would still require updated gaming compacts between the state and individual tribes, which must be reviewed and approved at the federal level.
This bill’s progress follows earlier discussions in the legislature about updating Wisconsin’s wagering laws and reflects broader national trends as states evaluate how best to legalize and regulate online sports betting.
Image credit: Kenneth C. Zirkel / CC BY-SA 4.0