Massachusetts To Study Sports Betting Kiosks At Bars, Restaurants

Struggling bars and restaurants in Massachusetts gained a glimmer of hope when Governor Charlie Baker legalized sports betting on August 10th.

A study on sports betting kiosks in Massachusetts must be completed by December 31st of this year, examining their potential effects on various aspects such as the local economy and public health.

MA sports betting kiosks to receive review

Massachusetts Gaming Commission officials have been assigned the responsibility of developing a system that caters to the needs of both gamblers, casinos, and small businesses, now that sports betting has been legalized in MA.

In order to address the last two points, the MGC needs to present a feasibility study regarding the implementation of sports betting kiosks. These kiosks are compact terminals that enable customers to place bets on various sports events. It should be noted that these machines are currently being introduced in Ohio.

State Senator John Velis is hopeful that these kiosks would be functional in Massachusetts.

In Massachusetts, the emergence of sports betting is set to introduce a completely fresh industry. It is crucial for us to contemplate ways in which we can ensure that not only the casinos and online licensees, but also the smaller businesses such as bars and restaurants in our communities, can reap the benefits from this industry.

At their regular meeting on August 11, the commissioners convened publicly to address various matters, including the topic of sports betting. However, during this session, the study was not brought up or discussed.

Sports betting kiosk study specifics

According to the law, the MGC’s study should incorporate a minimum of the subsequent 10 data points:

• The economic consequences for restaurants and bars that offer alcohol for consumption on-site.
• Where could kiosks be operated?
• The state’s economy is experiencing an impact.
• Types of payout methods
• Health and safety impact
• Effects on problem gambling
• Effect on minors
• Effect on businesses owned by individuals of color
• The replacement of black market wagering with kiosks has significant effects on both public health and the economy.
• Suggestions for implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies

The MGC is primarily concerned with examining the impact of kiosks on revenue generation, retailers, gamblers, and public health.

Velis emphasized the significance of ensuring the proper execution of sports betting in Massachusetts.

It was not an easy task to push sports betting through this session. Although I still prioritize our small businesses, I am relieved that Massachusetts has now implemented some form of sports betting.

Ohio bringing sports betting kiosks to grocery stores

Neighborhood retailers, such as bars and restaurants, can benefit from kiosks as they offer a means to share in the profits generated from sports betting. The process typically involves the retailer applying for a license, obtaining approval, and subsequently installing the necessary machines.

According to Velis, Ohio is set to introduce sports betting on January 1, along with the inclusion of kiosks in their plan. Over 1,000 businesses in the state have already received pre-approval to offer these sports-betting kiosks. Velis believes that Ohio’s approach could potentially serve as a blueprint for Massachusetts.

Having other states to observe can be highly beneficial in understanding progress and identifying effective strategies. While acknowledging the contrasting nature of Maryland and Ohio compared to Massachusetts, they serve as tangible illustrations of the process and outcomes.

Ohio is expanding its sports betting options by permitting lottery retailers to apply for kiosks, as well as offering online and retail sportsbook betting. In contrast, Massachusetts’ law focuses on studying the feasibility of sports betting in “bars and restaurants,” but this may potentially be expanded. Furthermore, Ohio also permits betting in places like grocery stores that also function as lottery retailers.