Pennsylvania Is Finally Entering the Mobile Sports Betting 2024

Pennsylvania has officially entered the online sports betting market, marking a significant milestone after a long and hard-fought journey. SugarHouse Online Sportsbook, in collaboration with Kambi and parent company Rush Street Interactive, began a live testing period on May 28, becoming the first legal online sports betting platform in the state.

 

The Current State of PA Sportsbetting

As of now, eight retail sportsbooks are operational in Pennsylvania, but the launch of SugarHouse Sportsbook represents the state's first foray into mobile sports betting. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board granted approval for this soft launch, which typically spans a few days to ensure systems function correctly and comply with regulations. Notably, the app is not yet available on Apple’s App Store, so bettors will need to use computers, Android devices, or web browsers on mobile or desktop.

The initial rollout schedule for online operators includes:

• SugarHouse Sportsbook: Soft launch on May 28, 2019
• Parx Sportsbook: To Be Announced (TBA)
• Rivers Sportsbook: TBA

Pennsylvanians can place wagers on a wide range of professional and collegiate sports, including the NCAA, NBA, NHL, NFL, and MLB. This variety ensures that both casual and dedicated sports fans can participate in the burgeoning online sports betting scene.

The introduction of mobile sports betting is a pivotal moment for Pennsylvania. The state faced significant challenges in launching its sports betting market, particularly due to its high 36 percent tax rate on sports betting revenue. Despite these hurdles, the state saw $44 million in wagers in March from retail sportsbooks alone. This robust performance indicates a strong interest in sports betting within the state.

The expansion to mobile betting is expected to further boost this interest and participation. Pennsylvania's large population and its proximity to metropolitan areas without sports betting options, such as New York and New Jersey, position the state to become a major player in the gaming industry. The convenience of mobile betting is likely to attract a broader audience, contributing to higher wagering volumes and, consequently, increased tax revenue for the state.

 

Who’s Next for PA Online Sports Betting?

Several operators are poised to enter the Pennsylvania online sports betting market, especially after witnessing the success of similar initiatives in New Jersey. Here are some of the anticipated providers and their affiliate casinos:

• Kambi + Rivers Casino
• Kambi + Parx Casino and Racing
• Kambi + South Philadelphia Turf Club
• Kambi + Valley Forge Race and Sportsbook
• FanDuel Sportsbook + Valley Forge Casino
• William Hill + Hollywood Casino
• BetStars + Mount Airy
• Scientific Games + Harrah’s Philadelphia
• Churchill Downs + Presque Isle Downs

Additionally, regulations from a 2017 law permit off-track betting (OTBs) and satellite casinos to offer sports betting, further broadening the landscape. This regulatory framework is designed to encourage competition and provide bettors with a variety of options, thereby enhancing the overall market.

 

Conclusion

Pennsylvania's entry into the mobile sports betting market marks a significant advancement in the state's gaming industry. The successful launch of SugarHouse Sportsbook sets a precedent and paves the way for other operators to follow. As more operators launch their platforms, the competitive landscape will continue to evolve, offering more options and opportunities for bettors across the state.

This development not only enhances the betting experience for users but also contributes to the state's economy through increased tax revenues and job creation within the industry. Pennsylvania's strategic approach to expanding its sports betting market demonstrates its commitment to becoming a key player in the evolving gaming landscape.