On Tuesday, the Kansas House of Representatives revealed its plan to legalize sports gambling in the state. Though casino operators lauded the bill, representatives from the greyhound industry expressed their concerns.
Titled House Bill 2740, this bill would allow sports gambling through online platforms and bets placed at casinos, convenience stores and racetracks. The committee heard testimony in support from three state casinos, a tribal casino, the Sporting Kanas City soccer team, and others.
Representative John Barker, stated: "I never thought this day would get here." Barker is an Abilene Republican and Chairman of the Federal and State Affairs Committee. In terms of revenue, the state would receive 20% of revenue through online gambling and 14% from in-person bets.
The legislation would allow the Kansas Lottery to contract with gaming facility managers to authorize sports gambling. The managers could then offer wagering through platforms such as websites, interactive mobile applications, and on-site.
Although machines would be allowed at Las Vegas casino owner Phil Ruffin's now-closed Sedgwick County racetrack, they would be banned at greyhound races. The opponents of the legislation voiced concerns surrounding these restrictions placed on greyhound racing.
Executive Director Jim Gartland of the National Greyhound Association, and Mike O’Neil, representing the Kansas Greyhound Association, submitted written testimony. They voiced their concerns about Ruffin's influence on the bill itself since machines would be allowed at his racetrack.
Gartland noted: "This is akin to letting a Mcdonald's franchise owner write the laws on what other fast-food companies are allowed to be operated in the state."
If the House were to adopt this legislation, representatives would need to collaborate with senators who passed a competing bill in 2021.
