Georgia House committee advances bill to legalize online sports betting with increased tax rate

A Georgia House committee advanced a package of bills on Wednesday, moving the state closer to legalizing digital-only sports betting with a higher proposed tax rate. The legislation, which includes a constitutional amendment and a framework bill, now heads to the rules committee with hopes of reaching the House floor before Thursday's crossover deadline.

The proposed tax rate on sports wagering revenue was increased to 24%, up from the previously suggested 20%, under House Bill 686. The committee approved this change through a voice vote, aiming to boost funding for the state's universal pre-K education and HOPE scholarships. An amendment to add online casino gaming to the ballot initiative, however, was defeated.

If passed, the legislation would place digital sports betting on the November 2026 ballot, with the market set to go live on July 31, 2027 if approved. The proposed model would create an open and competitive marketplace, with the Georgia Lottery Corporation acting as the regulator.

Georgia’s professional sports teams, including those associated with Augusta National Golf Club, Atlanta Speedway, and the PGA Tour, would be eligible to apply for licenses. Seven additional standalone licenses would also be available, and the Georgia Lottery could operate its own digital betting platform.

Representative Sam Park, who proposed both amendments, emphasized the financial benefits for educational programs. Eighty-five percent of the first $150 million in wagering tax revenue would be directed to funding the universal pre-K program and the state’s HOPE scholarships, he said.

Park argued that including iGaming could significantly increase revenue for education. He pointed to the example of New Jersey, where online casino operators generated over $2 billion in 2024, compared to $1.2 billion from sports betting.

However, Committee Chair Chuck Martin opposed adding iGaming to the amendment, expressing a desire to learn more about it before moving forward. 

The updated framework bill differs from its 2023 predecessor by adding two-factor authentication for online betting accounts and removing promotional activities. Bill sponsor Marcus Wiedower noted that these changes were made to enhance security and focus on responsible gaming practices.