Over 70% of Fans Want an End to US Sports Betting Ban
A survey by the American Gaming Association shows just over 70% of sports fans want an end or repeal of the US Sports Betting Ban enacted in 1992. The fans want states to decide on legalized sports betting for their residents and not the federal government. The survey noted that 30% of the people were unaware of the current laws and regulations of sports betting in the US. They did not realize sports betting is illegal in all states except Nevada.
Public attitude is changing and shifting toward a legal and regulated structured platform of sports betting with fees and tax revenue going to the state to support their budget expenses.
The survey conducted questions about how people viewed the concept of legal sports betting. It focused on the PASPA (Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act), the federal ban that prohibits single game sports betting outside of Nevada. About 40% of those surveyed knew the ban on sports betting was national in scope except for Nevada. Much of the data from sports fans was an indication that the majority were in favor of repealing the sports betting ban.
Over 70% of avid sports fans, mostly male, were in favor of legalized sports betting. About 60% of younger males between 18 and 36 years of age were most likely to approve of legal sports betting in their states. Nearly 70% of Americans believed a legalized sports betting platform would benefit local communities with additional tax revenue and job creation.
If a legalized sports betting system was in place many non bettors replied they would bet small for entertainment and possible profit.
The survey asked people about the current behavior on sports betting. Results showed one in five Americans admitted to some sports betting in the past year either with friends or an illegal bookmaker. That number jumps to 50% for people who are avid sports fans. More data re-enforces the idea of fan engagement tied to betting on games. Average sports fans admit to watching a game they bet on with friends or co-workers. They become more sociable and follow teams more closely for betting opportunities.
This is not the first polled survey that might seem a little inflated. Results from other surveys were in line with their feedback and attitudes about the legalization of sports betting. These surveys from last year found similar facts compared to the current survey. Results showed that two-thirds of Americans agreed sports betting should become legal and regulated. One-half of Americans supported the repeal of the sports betting ban. A majority of NFL fans wants sports betting to be legal and regulated in their state.
The NFL is the most popular betting sport in the country and yet has the strongest anti-gambling regulation in place. Players, coaches, referees, team personnel and owners are highly scrutinized and watched with an eagle eye by the NFL brass and Roger Goodell. Goodell is so paranoid about the NFL image yet he overlooked some of the hypocrisy of their strict regulation. Having the owners approve the Raiders move to Las Vegas was a big blow to his iron fist tactics. There will be a conflict of interest around every corner when this relocation is in full swing.
Other sports like the NBA and MLB have taken a much more lenient stance toward legal sports betting. Commissioner Adam Silver of the NBA and Manfred of MLB have been much more realistic and open to the sports betting industry. Even the NHL now has a team franchise in Las Vegas ready to start next season. The general public from the non betting viewers to the avid betting fan, want to see the ban removed and enjoy their entertainment pleasure.
