Kansas: Boot Hill Casino's sports betting contracts approved; DraftKings eyeing state debut on launch day

Butler National Corporation announced Thursday that, through its wholly-owned subsidiary that manages Boot Hill Casino & Resort in Dodge City, Kansas, it has received Sports Wagering Management Contract approval from the Kansas Lottery. Earlier this summer, the company announced sports wagering platform agreements with DraftKings and Bally's Corporation. 

The Sports Wagering Management Contract provides for the management of sports wagering, both in-house at the Boot Hill Casino, as well as through three Kansas Lottery-approved Interactive Sports Wagering Platforms. The contract term is for five years and provides the statutory revenue share of 10% to the state. 

CEO of Butler National Corporation Clark Stewart said: "We've been working diligently with our current online wagering platform partners to bring online sports betting to Kansans just as soon as regulators give us the green light. The approval of the Sports Wagering Management Contract brings us one step closer to that significant achievement." 

In anticipation of the launch of sports wagering by the Kansas Lottery, DraftKings expects a timely debut of its Kansas platform on the day the regulators approve the initial launch. Boot Hill Casino & Resort also anticipates unveiling its on-site interim sportsbook and plans to accept wagers shortly after the launch of the platform.

"Our team is focused on the timely launch of the DraftKings mobile platform and the DraftKings retail sports book at Boot Hill Casino in Dodge City," added Stewart. "We are thrilled to bring the excitement of sports wagering to our casino guests and to all Kansans."

Once the Kansas Lottery launches sports wagering, anyone legally permitted within the geographical boundaries of Kansas can start placing bets from mobile devices or computers by accessing a participating sportsbook or visiting a lottery gaming facility. 

Kansas officials announced Thursday the state is set to launch sports gaming starting September 1, through a "soft launch" at noon that day. An official launch has been set for September 8, Kansas Lottery executive director Stephen Durrell confirmed in a video announcement.