Washington State Senate approves bill to allow in-state college betting

The proposal now heads to the House of Representatives.

US.- The Washington State Senate has passed a bill that would remove certain online sportsbook limitations at tribal casinos and lift the ban on in-state college betting. The Senate approved the proposal by a vote of 41-8. It now heads to the House of Representatives.

SB 6137 would allow bettors to wager on the outcome of games or matches from Washington colleges. Betting on the performance of individual athletes would not be allowed. The legislation would take effect 90 days after the legislature adjourns in mid-March.

According to the Spokesman-Review, bill sponsor state Sen. Adrian Cortes said that residents are currently placing bets through “illicit or gray market avenues.” He said: “We need to ensure that we protect student athletes and properly regulate sports betting on in-state college teams.”

Washington State AG files lawsuit against unlicensed online casino apps

Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown recently filed a lawsuit against several companies that operate unlicensed online casino apps. The complaint alleges violations of the Gambling Act and the Consumer Protection Act and seeks to recover residents’ losses.

According to the Office of the Attorney General, apps have taken more than $225m from residents since September 2020. The lawsuit cites suppliers such as Playtika and Aristocrat, claiming that they are responsible for 16 apps used by more than 150,000 residents to engage in gambling every month via the purchase of virtual currency.