In the wake of Missouri’s imminent sports betting launch set for late 2025, the focus now turns to which US state could be the next to legalize domestic sportsbooks. While MO will become the 39th state to sanction sports betting, some among the holdout eleven are making significant moves toward legalization, each with unique challenges and political climates influencing their progress.
Texas
Texas stands out as a top candidate poised for potential legalization in the near future. Despite historical resistance and a divided political landscape, 2025 has seen legislative activity signaling renewed interest. Proposed bills, such as HB 2843 and a Senate Joint Resolution, aim to legalize sports betting in TX.
However, opposition from key political figures, including the Texas lieutenant governor, has stalled progress, indicating that a statewide referendum or legislative breakthrough could be years away. The demand from Texas’s large population and substantial potential for sports betting keeps it a central state to watch.
Georgia
Georgia is another promising state advancing toward legalization. The state Senate passed SR 579 in early 2024, though the House has yet to act on the legislation. Momentum appears to be building for renewed efforts in 2026, and supporters are optimistic about securing a referendum for voters. Georgia’s large metropolitan population and sports culture make it a lucrative potential market once lawmakers align on regulatory terms.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma represents a distinct case in the Southeastern US, with legislation (HB 1047 and HB 1101) passed in the House and ongoing tribal-state compact negotiations. Tribal exclusivity agreements and revenue-sharing arrangements complicate the path, but Oklahoma’s efforts suggest a regional interest in legal sports betting that aligns with tribal gaming operations.
Should negotiations succeed, Oklahoma could join the ranks of states like Florida, which have tribal-centric sports betting frameworks.
California
California remains the largest and most significant untapped market. Efforts to legalize sports betting in CA span multiple years and faced setbacks, including failed ballot initiatives and legislative gridlock.
The state’s complex regulatory landscape, coupled with competing interests from tribal gaming entities, sports leagues, and potential sportsbook operators, makes California’s timeline uncertain. However, given the economic incentives and citizen support, observers widely regard California as the major prize once a consensus emerges.
States Not Currently Interested
Utah is a region dominated by conservative, religious ideologies that currently features zero gambling. We do not expect any movement toward the legalization of local sports betting in the near future.
Little progress has been made in Alaska to legalize domestic sports betting. The combination of isolation and climate would seem to create an ideal scenario for sports betting to thrive, but that is likely exactly what AK lawmakers fear – the potential for low-income Alaskans to be wiped out completely.