Online sports betting in Montana

Montana surprisingly became the 9th state in the U.S. to legalize sports betting on May 6, 2019 after Gov. Steve Bullock signed one of two passed sports betting bills.

Since the Supreme Court decision on May 14, 2018 struck down the federal ban on sports betting (PASPA), states have been proposing legislation to legalize sports betting. And seven states other than Nevada had passed bills. Montana became the latest state to allow its residents the right to legally bet on sports like football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, boxing, UFC and other sports. The legal age for gambling in Montana is 18.

Mobile betting will be allowed but restricted to when customers are physically within one of the restaurants/bars that are licensed sports betting provider. Bettors will be able to gamble within establishments that have machines selling lottery tickets already — usually found in taverns or bars.

Legislation Updates on Sports Betting in Montana

There were two sports betting proposals, and Bullock approved House bill H 725, which authorizes the state lottery to conduct sports betting. Lotter giant Intralot will run the Montana sportsbook operations.

Mobile betting will be allowed in Montana with restrictions to within the approved physical locations, and Intralot will administer the process.

The state will have the ability to control, monitor, and protect sports wagering products and players through security and integrity protocols, policies around responsible gaming, and policies to ensure that sports wagering is competitive, transparent, and reliable.