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Wisconsin Senate Backs Tribal-Run Mobile Sports Betting, Sending Bill to Evers

Gov. Tony Evers has not committed to signing, citing the need for broader tribal consultation.

Overview

  • The Senate approved AB 601 by a 21–12 vote, with passage relying on Democratic support as about half of Republicans opposed it.
  • The bill treats in‑state mobile wagers as occurring on tribal land if processed on servers located on federally recognized tribal property, mirroring Florida’s hub‑and‑spoke model.
  • Major operators represented by the Sports Betting Alliance objected, arguing the tribal framework and a 60% revenue return to tribes would make partnerships economically unworkable.
  • Even with a signature, implementation would require renegotiated tribal compacts and federal approvals, and launches in other states show mobile betting can take months to start.
  • Opponents warn of potential constitutional challenges and increased gambling addiction risks, while supporters cite consumer protections and revenue benefits for Wisconsin tribes.