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Georgia Sports Betting on Deck for 2024 with Focus on Stadiums and Education
Georgia lawmakers are gearing up to potentially expand gaming in the state next year, with sports betting emerging as a likely frontrunner. A recent poll indicates that while residents are in favor of both casinos and sports wagering, the latter holds a slight edge in popularity. Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones has expressed support for sports betting, describing it as an “easy lift” and the most favored among the proposed gaming options.
Despite Georgia’s current lack of commercial or tribal casinos, there is optimism that sports betting may finally come to fruition in the state. Georgia’s Chief Justice Harold Melton has indicated that the issue does not necessitate a constitutional amendment, potentially paving the way for a smoother legislative process. The rapid population growth in Georgia has also heightened the need for additional funding sources for education, with some politicians suggesting that framing sports wagering as a potential funding avenue could sway hesitant lawmakers.
The support of major professional sports teams in Atlanta further boosts the prospect of legalized sports betting in Georgia. The initiative could receive a substantial amount of backing from legislators, particularly given the need to boost funding for pre-K education and the HOPE scholarship program.
Looking ahead to 2024, Georgia is one of the top contenders among mid-sized and large states to approve sports betting, with neighboring states like South Carolina and others facing challenges on the legislative front. With an eye on potential funding avenues for education and widespread support from sports organizations, the prospects for legal sports betting in Georgia appear promising.