Louisiana Sports Betting

Editor’s note: As of Jan. 18, 2021

Two attempts to get sports betting passed in Louisiana failed with the second measure going belly up as the clock ran out on the 2019 session but momentum was already starting to swing towards legalization.

2020 though brought a more positive response as the legislature passed a bill to put the question to the electorate of the state. 55 of the 64 parishes voted to approve sports betting in a clear signal to their elected officials that they want to join in. This doesn't mean it is legal just yet but now it is expected to have a much clearer path through the state legislature.

They will come back later in the year and hopefully pass two more bills. One with language for regulation and licensing procedures and the other will be setting the tax rate for the state coffers to be boosted by the approval of gambling.

The idea of bettors being able to place legal sports wagers within the state for the 2021 NFL season seems not too far-fetched.

Is sports betting currently legal in the state?

No, but it is getting close.

What about betting on horse racing?

The state allows parimutuel wagering so you can legally place online horse wagers with TVG, Bet America, Twinspires and AM Wager.