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Arizona set for legal sports betting as DoI approves gaming compact

News

The US Department of Interior (DoI) has given its approval to a tribal-state gaming compact bill in Arizona, clearing the way for legal sports betting to launch in the state.

Signed in April by Arizona Governor Doug Ducey, House Bill 2772 formalized an amended compact that set out measures allowing consumers to bet on sports at tribal casinos and sites owned by major league sports teams in Arizona.

An existing tribal-state gaming compact was due to expire in the next few years, with Ducey saying at the time of the signing that the amended agreement would “modernize” gambling in the state.

Shortly after the signing, the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) began drafting rules for the launch of fantasy competitions and sports wagering in the state, though the bill still required final approval from the DoI.

With the DoI having given the green light to the bill, this now clears the way for the roll out of legal sports betting in Arizona.

“Gaming creates thousands of jobs for Arizonans, it generates tax revenue that benefits key areas of our communities, and it draws visitors to our state,” Ducey said.

“The tribal-state gaming compact amendment, along with its associated legislation, was the culmination of a multi-year process and I was proud to work with all the stakeholders on this historic accomplishment.

“The tribal-state gaming compact and its associated legislation now is officially in effect — thank you to everyone who worked to make this happen.”

In anticipation of the bill passing, a number of major operators have secured market access deals in Arizona, including DraftKings, which expanded its partnership with golf’s PGA Tour in order to launch in the state.