Arizona Governor asks legislature to allow statewide sports gambling

Arizona Governor asks legislature to allow statewide sports gambling

Article brief provided by Capitol Media Services Arizona
  • Howard Fischer, Capitol Media Services Arizona
January 14, 2021 8:59 PM
  • Howard Fischer, Capitol Media Services Arizona

PHOENIX –Gov. Doug Ducey wants to open the door to allowing Arizonans to bet on — or against — the Diamondbacks and the Cardinals. And maybe even the Wildcats and Sun Devils.

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He also wants wagering on fantasy leagues and even instant keno games. And the governor wants to allow mobile devices to be used to place bets. And all of that would be available off reservation.

Now he needs the Arizona Legislature to go along and repeal the laws that now prohibit such gambling.

In a document given to lawmakers Wednesday, the governor said he has negotiated a new compact with Arizona tribes which now gives them the exclusive right to operate casino-style wagering in Arizona, albeit with certain limits.