Kansas Legal Sports Betting Overview
KS Sports Betting Law Details
Status
- Retail Sports Betting Launch Date: September 1, 2022
- Online Sports Betting Launch Date: September 1, 2022
- Expected Sportsbooks: Bally Bet, Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, PointsBet
- Expected Legal Wagering Options: Futures, moneylines, parlays, point spreads, same game parlays, teasers, totals
- Legal Gambling Age in KS: 21+ (sports betting), 18+ (online horse racing betting)
- Expected Sports to Bet On: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, MMA, NASCAR, tennis, golf, boxing, motorsports, cricket, European soccer, college sports betting
- Expected Permitted Banking Options: Mastercard, PayNearMe, PayPal, Play+, Skrill, Visa, Automated Clearing House (ACH), online bank transfers, wire transfers
- Kansas Gambling Regulator: Kansas Lottery
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed SB 84 on May 12, 2022, to legalize online and retail sports betting in the Sunflower State. The legislation had been attempted multiple times in the past, including in 2018 before the US Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA). While the initial deadline for the market launch was set for January 1, 2023, sports betting received approval for a soft launch on September 1, followed by an official launch on September 8. Each of the state’s four commercial casinos obtained a license to open one retail sportsbook, and negotiations are underway to expand the sports betting bill for tribal casinos to also offer retail sportsbooks. Additionally, the commercial casinos can partner with up to three online betting operators, potentially resulting in a total of 12 different online sportsbooks in Kansas. Online horse racing betting is already available through platforms like TwinSpires and TVG. For a comprehensive guide on sports betting in Kansas, keep reading. We will explore the latest legislation details, betting requirements, and the locations of retail sportsbooks.
Kansas Online Sportsbooks Summary
The Kansas Lottery oversaw the application process for online sportsbooks, and each of the state’s four commercial casinos can collaborate with up to three online sportsbook operators. For example, Boot Hill Casino has partnerships with Bally Bet and DraftKings. As of now, six sportsbooks—Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PointsBet—are live in Kansas, offering various welcome offers to attract new customers. Furthermore, residents of Kansas can engage in online horse racing betting on platforms like TwinSpires and TVG, as well as participate in Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) games offered by DraftKings and FanDuel for major league sports.
How to Place a Bet in Kansas
Many Kansas residents have yet to place their first sports bet despite the market’s launch last year. To help you get started, here is a step-by-step guide on how to register and begin wagering:
Choose one of the online sportsbooks available in Kansas.
Many sportsbooks offer mobile apps that can be downloaded from their mobile browser sites. Alternatively, you can visit your Apple or Android app store to download the Kansas betting apps when they become available.
Register an account by providing your full name, address, phone number, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
You may also need to create a password and answer security questions as part of the registration process.
Select a payment method for depositing funds.
Visit the sportsbook’s cashier section and choose a payment method that suits you. Some welcome offers may require a minimum deposit to activate the bonus, so ensure you meet the requirements.
Browse the sportsbook’s markets and choose a betting line.
Add your selection to your bet slip, where you can specify your stake and place your wager.
If your bet is successful, follow the sportsbook’s withdrawal instructions to claim your winnings.
Identity verification is typically necessary before withdrawals can be made, so be prepared to provide documents such as a photo ID and proof of address to satisfy the sportsbook’s fraud prevention measures.
Banking Methods Available in Kansas
With six major sportsbook operators already launched in Kansas, bettors have access to a wide range of banking methods. Accepted options include bank cards such as Visa and Mastercard, which are widely supported by most US sportsbooks, although certain cards may not permit withdrawals. Many sportsbooks, including DraftKings, offer partnerships with Play+, a prepaid card that enables easy deposits and withdrawals. E-wallets like PayPal are also popular payment options, and for those seeking a prepaid card solution, PayNearMe allows for convenient top-ups at retail locations like CVS and Walgreens. Additional banking choices, such as wire transfers and Automated Clearing House (ACH) transactions, are also available via certain sportsbooks.
Who is Eligible to Bet in Kansas?
To place wagers in Kansas, you must be at least 21 years old. Furthermore, you must be physically located within the state’s borders when placing bets using a mobile device. Enabling your device’s geolocation services is necessary for sportsbooks to verify your location within the state. Similar to neighboring state Colorado, Kansas has certain restrictions on who can partake in betting. For instance, players, coaches, and employees of professional or college sports teams are prohibited from wagering. Restrictions also apply to individuals employed by companies licensed to offer sports betting by the Kansas Lottery, as well as individuals with relevant criminal histories.
Latest Kansas Sports Betting Updates
Current Sports Betting Status in Kansas
Governor Kelly signed the sports betting legislation into law on May 12, 2022, and after a review period, sports betting was officially legalized on July 1, 2022. Retail and online sportsbooks in Kansas underwent a soft launch on September 1 before the official full launch on September 8. Each of the four commercial casinos in the state has opened a retail sportsbook, and they can also partner with up to three online operators, potentially allowing for a maximum of 12 online sportsbooks in Kansas. The Kansas Lottery will determine 50 retail locations where sports betting kiosks can operate. Online horse racing betting is already available in the state.
Timeline for Sports Betting in Kansas
– January 17, 2023: Kansas Crossing Casino becomes the fourth and final casino in Kansas to offer retail sports betting.
– December 2, 2022: Governor Kelly suggests changes to Kansas’ state gambling fund to attract a major-league franchise.
– October 12, 2022: Kansas sportsbooks report a $160 million handle in the first month of betting.
– September 8, 2022: Full launch of sports betting markets in Kansas.
– September 1, 2022: Soft launch of sports betting in Kansas.
– August 26, 2022: The Kansas Lottery announces six online sportsbooks approved to go live on September 1, including DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, PointsBet, FanDuel, and Barstool.
– August 18, 2022: Governor Kelly announces a soft launch of online and retail betting on September 1, with an official launch following on September 8.
– August 4, 2022: DraftKings encourages bettors to download their app and pre-register ahead of the market launch by offering a $100,000 sweepstake and $100 in free bets. FanDuel launches a similar $100 promotion for bettors who pre-register an account.
– May 12, 2022: Governor Kelly signs SB 84, legalizing online and retail sports betting in Kansas from July 1, 2022.
– April 29, 2022: The Kansas Senate approves SB 84 by a 21-13 vote.
– March 30, 2022: The Kansas House votes 88-36 in favor of passing SB 84, integrating parts of HB 2470, which includes retail partnerships.
– March 23, 2022: HB 2740 dies in the House Committee.
– March 16, 2022: HB 2740, a bill to authorize sports betting under the Kansas Lottery, is introduced to the House.
– March 3, 2021: The State Senate passes SB 84, a bill to legalize online and retail sports betting in Kansas, by a 26-12 vote.
– May 21, 2020: SB 283 and HB 2671 die in the House Committee.
– March 11, 2020: A hearing is held to discuss both sports betting bills, SB 283 and HB 2671.
– February 26, 2020: SB 283 passes the Senate, but Governor Kelly expresses her lack of support due to insufficient revenue generation for the Kansas Lottery.
– February 13, 2020: HB 2671 is introduced to the House, seeking to legalize online and retail sports betting. The bill includes provisions for the Kansas Lottery to launch 1,200 retail betting kiosks.
– January 21, 2020: SB 283, a bill to legalize online and retail sports betting, is introduced to the Senate.
– May 14, 2018: The US Supreme Court overturns PASPA, allowing states to decide on legalizing sports betting.
Kansas Sports Betting Background
Kansas has a rich history regarding horse racing, with Eureka Downs opening in 1872. Following a constitutional amendment in 1986, pari-mutuel betting was legalized in 1987. However, there are currently no operational racetracks in the state, as Eureka Downs closed in 2011. Efforts to legalize sports betting in Kansas date back to before the overturning of PASPA, with SB 455 being discussed in March 2018. The bill included provisions for lottery retailers, online sportsbooks, and gaming facilities to offer wagering. It also proposed a 0.25% sports betting integrity fee to be paid to major leagues. Subsequent attempts to amend sports betting laws in 2019 failed due to disagreements over a suggested 50% tax rate. Disagreements between the House and Senate regarding SB 283 and HB 2671 ultimately led to the failure of further efforts in 2020.
Future of Kansas Sports Betting
Retail and online sportsbooks in Kansas soft-launched on September 1, 2022, in preparation for the football season, followed by an official launch on September 8. Besides licensing online and retail sportsbooks, the Kansas Lottery is responsible for licensing 50 retail locations where sports betting kiosks can operate. There is also the potential for tribal casinos to negotiate agreements to offer retail sportsbooks in the future.
Kansas Sports Betting Locations
Following the launch of the sports betting market in Kansas, the state’s four casinos have introduced retail sportsbooks in addition to online wagering. The six tribal casinos in Kansas, included as part of SB 84, may also enter negotiations to offer retail sportsbooks.
Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway
Address: 777 Hollywood Casino Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66111
Website: https://www.hollywoodcasinokansas.com/
Phone Number: (913) 288 9300
Operator: Penn National Gaming
Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway has launched a Barstool Sportsbook at the Under Turn2 Sports Bar and Restaurant. The sportsbook features 30 betting kiosks, five betting windows, and 45 HDTVs, making it an ideal spot to stay up to date with all the action. The sportsbook remains open until midnight every day.
Kansas Star Casino
Address: 777 Kansas Star Drive, Mulvane, KS 67110
Website: https://www.kansasstarcasino.com/
Phone Number: (316) 719 5000
Operator: Boyd Gaming
Kansas Star Casino’s FanDuel-operated sportsbook offers a comprehensive range of services provided by a leading operator. Betting windows are open until midnight, and there are also 24/7 self-service kiosks available for convenience.
Boot Hill Casino & Resort
Address: 4000 W Comanche Street, Dodge City, KS 67801
Website: https://boothillcasino.com/
Phone Number: (620) 682 7777
Operator: Boot Hill Gaming
Boot Hill Gaming has partnered with both Bally Bet and DraftKings, utilizing two of its three online licenses. The retail sportsbook, located at the Comanche Street site, offers sports fans the opportunity to enjoy live games and place bets via kiosks.
Kansas Crossing Casino & Hotel
Address: 1275 S, US-69, Pittsburg, KS 66762
Website: https://kansascrossingcasino.com/
Phone Number: (620) 240 4400
Operator: Peninsula Pacific Ent.
Kansas Crossing Casino & Hotel offers in-person sports betting through its Caesars Sportsbook. In addition to Caesars, Peninsula Pacific Entertainment has partnered with BetMGM and PointsBet to leverage the newly launched sports betting market in Kansas.
Kansas Lottery Locations
The Kansas Lottery is responsible for overseeing sports betting legislation in the state and will select 50 retail locations to license for sports betting kiosks. Some of these locations may include lottery retailers. Previous attempts to legalize sports betting, such as with HB 2671, would have allowed the state lottery to launch betting at 1,200 retail locations.
Off-Track and Stadium Betting Locations
Retail sportsbooks are only permitted at the state’s commercial casinos, therefore, retail sportsbooks are not available at stadiums in Kansas. Though Kansas legalized pari-mutuel racing in 1987, the closure of Eureka Downs in 2011 means there are no off-track betting locations in the state.
Ohio Responsible Gambling Resources
– National Council on Problem Gambling Kansas: Offers guidance and resources in Kansas, including access to the Kansas Coalition on Problem Gambling’s helpline and live chat.
– Kansas Coalition on Problem Gambling: Provides a 24/7 helpline staffed by trained professionals who can identify warning signs and refer individuals to gambling counselors. It also offers a no out-of-pocket treatment program.
– Gamblers Anonymous: Organizes meetings and virtual gatherings for problem gamblers across Kansas and provides links to state hotlines and their own recovery program.
– Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission: Offers a state-wide self-exclusion program for casino gambling, allowing individuals to prohibit themselves from entering any land-based casinos. It is likely that Kansas will extend this program for sports bettors. Sportsbooks in Kansas are national operators that provide responsible gambling help in every state, including links to valuable resources and account tools to limit wagering.
Teams to Bet on in Kansas
Pro Sports
Kansas previously hosted NBA and NHL teams, but currently has no major league franchises. The Kansas City Kings played in the NBA from 1972 to 1985 before relocating to Sacramento. Similarly, the NHL’s Kansas City Scouts relocated to Denver shortly after their launch, and later became the New Jersey Devils. Despite this, many sports fans in Kansas support teams from neighboring states, particularly those from the Kansas City metropolitan area, which spans both Kansas and Missouri. The Kansas City Chiefs of the NFL, despite being based in Missouri, have a strong following in Kansas. Similarly, the Kansas City Royals of the MLB attract supporters from the Sunflower State.
Minor League Sports
Kansas is home to several minor league sports teams, including the Wichita Thunder, which plays minor league hockey in the 15,000-seat Intrust Bank Arena. The Wichita Thunder is affiliated with the NHL’s Edmonton Oilers and the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors. Additionally, the Wichita Wind Surge participates in the Texas League, serving as the Double-A affiliate of the MLB’s Minnesota Twins. The team plays at Riverfront Stadium and accomplished a division title in its inaugural year.
College Sports
The University of Kansas Jayhawks, the most successful college sports program in Kansas, competes in the Big 12 Conference and has won 12 NCAA Team Championships. The Jayhawks’ basketball team is particularly renowned, having won the March Madness Tournament in 2022, as well as in 1952, 1988, and 2008. The Kansas State Wildcats, representing Kansas State University, also participate in the Big 12 Conference and have achieved success across various sports, winning 37 NCAA Individual Championships. The Wichita State University Shockers, known for their baseball program, won the College World Series in 1989 and have one of the highest winning percentages in NCAA Division I history. Their basketball team reached the Final Four of the NCAA Men’s Tournament in 2013.
Women’s Sports
Kansas City Current is a professional women’s soccer team competing in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Established as an expansion franchise in 2021, the team plays its home games at Children’s Mercy Park. While the Current finished at the bottom of the league during their debut season, they have shown improvement in their second season.
How Does Kansas Compare to Other States?
Market Coverage
Kansas allows betting on professional sports, including the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL, as well as other sports like golf and MMA. Betting on college sports is also permitted without any restrictions, aligning Kansas with states such as Pennsylvania and Michigan. The Kansas Lottery has the authority to legalize betting on specific events upon request from sportsbook operators.
Competitive Odds & Prices
With operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, PointsBet, Barstool Sportsbook, and BetMGM launching in Kansas, bettors have access to some of the best odds nationwide. These operators offer the same odds across all states, ensuring competitive odds on various betting markets. For instance, DraftKings provides generous MLB point spread odds, which are accessible in Kansas.
Gambling Revenue
Kansas imposes a 10% tax rate on sportsbooks’ net revenue, similar to West Virginia and Wyoming. West Virginia, with a population smaller than Kansas, generated $11,278,597 in taxes from sportsbook revenue of $117,285,971 as of August 2022. Kansas far exceeded this figure, with handles exceeding $160 million and $189 million in the first two months of market activity. Tax revenue distribution is designed to benefit the state, allocating funds to the White Collar Crime Fund, problem gambling prevention, the Lottery Operating Fund, and the Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Fund. The latter fund could potentially attract a major-league franchise to the state, with rumors surrounding the Kansas City Chiefs’ search for a new stadium.
Betting Taxes
Gambling winnings in Kansas are included in your income for state income tax purposes, requiring you to declare them. The state has three tax brackets, with rates ranging from 3.10% to 5.70%, determined by your annual income and marital status. It is also necessary to report gambling winnings on your federal income tax return. If your winnings exceed $600, you must fill out a W-2G form. Additionally, sportsbooks are required to pay a 0.25% excise tax on the overall sports betting handle outlined by the Internal Revenue Code.
Who Oversees Sports Betting in Kansas?
The Kansas Lottery oversees sports betting in the state, setting regulations, determining applicant requirements for sportsbooks, and making decisions regarding changes, special allowances, and responsible gambling obligations. The Kansas Racing and Gambling Commission assist the lottery in enforcing its regulations, including conducting operator background checks and controlling gambling advertising regulations.
Conclusion
Kansas has embarked on a new era with the legalization of both online and retail sports betting. The state’s sports betting law, signed by Governor Laura Kelly, allows for a range of sports and wagering options, with major operators already launching in Kansas. Residents can now enjoy placing bets on popular sports leagues, including the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL, as well as college sports. The Kansas Lottery oversees the market and ensures compliance with regulations, while also aiming to protect consumers through responsible gambling measures. With retail and online betting options, Kansas offers a diverse betting landscape for residents and visitors alike.
