New Mexico Legal Sports Betting Overview
NM Sports Betting Law Details
Status
- Retail Sports Betting Launch Date: October 16, 2018
- Online Sports Betting Launch Date: N/A
- Licensed Sportsbooks: Hilton Buffalo Thunder Casino, Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino, Isleta Resort & Casino, Route 66 Casino, Santa Ana Star Casino (all retail only)
- Legal Wagering Options: Futures, moneylines, parlays, point spreads, same game parlays, teasers, totals
- Legal Gambling Age in NM: 21+
- Sports to Bet On: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, MMA, tennis, golf, boxing, motorsports, cricket, European soccer, college sports (no in-state teams at some sports betting venues)
- Permitted Banking Options: MasterCard, PayNearMe, Visa, cash at betting windows or kiosks
- New Mexico Gambling Regulator: New Mexico Gaming Control Board
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on New Mexico sports betting! In this article, we’ll provide you with all the details you need to know about the legal status, locations, wagering options, and more. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the fascinating world of sports betting in the Land of Enchantment.
New Mexico Sports Betting Background
New Mexico sports betting is not legal statewide, but five tribal casinos have launched retail sportsbooks under a gaming compact signed in 2015. These tribal casinos are authorized to operate games of chance, which includes sports wagering. The Santa Ana Star Casino was the first to open a retail sportsbook on October 16, 2018, making New Mexico the sixth state to accept sports bets after the US Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA).
It’s worth mentioning that the Navajo Nation has shown interest in introducing sports betting at its casinos, potentially adding three more retail sportsbooks to the state’s offerings. The tribal casinos in New Mexico follow the regulations set forth in the gaming compact, ensuring a responsible and regulated gambling environment.
In the following sections, we’ll explore various aspects of sports betting in New Mexico, including online sportsbooks, betting opportunities, banking options, eligibility, and more.
New Mexico Online Sportsbooks Summary
While online sports betting is currently unavailable in New Mexico, the five tribal casinos operating retail sportsbooks have the potential to launch geo-restricted apps for use on tribal land. For instance, Washington’s Snoqualmie Casino successfully launched a sports betting app in December 2021. However, as of August 2022, no operators have introduced such apps in New Mexico.
It’s important to note that the Unlawful Internet Gambling Act of 2006 (UIGA) prohibits any form of online gambling in New Mexico. However, residents and visitors can enjoy Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) games offered by operators like ESPN, Boom, Yahoo!, FantasyDraft, DraftKings, and FanDuel. Additionally, individuals can travel to neighboring states like Colorado or Arizona, where online sportsbooks are legally available, and choose from a wide range of operators.
While the online sports betting landscape in New Mexico is currently limited, it’s crucial to keep an eye on any potential changes in legislation that could expand the options for sports bettors in the future.
How to Place a Bet in New Mexico
Until online sports betting becomes legalized, placing a sports bet in New Mexico requires a visit to one of the five tribal casinos that operate retail sportsbooks. To help you navigate the process, we’ve provided a step-by-step guide below:
- Research the bets you plan to make before visiting the sportsbook. Conduct thorough research to increase your chances of placing winning bets.
- Choose the retail sportsbook you want to visit from the five available tribal casinos in New Mexico. Each sportsbook offers unique features and atmospheres.
- Once inside the sportsbook, head to a betting window or a betting kiosk to place your wager.
- Select your desired bet and decide how much money you want to place on the wager.
- Double-check your selection and the betting odds before finalizing your bet. Once placed, bets cannot be refunded, so accuracy is crucial.
- Upon placing your bet, you will receive a betting ticket. Make sure to keep this ticket safe, as you will need it to claim your winnings if your bet is successful.
- If your bet wins, return to the betting window with your ticket to claim your winnings.
Remember, each retail sportsbook may have its own specific procedures and rules, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the respective sportsbook’s guidelines before placing your bet.
Banking Methods Available in New Mexico
Given the current limitations on online sports betting in New Mexico, all payments for sports wagers must be made in person at the retail sportsbooks located within tribal casinos. The following banking methods are accepted at these sportsbooks:
- Cash
- Visa
- MasterCard
- PayNearMe
Some sportsbooks also accept PayNearMe cards, which can be topped up at local retailers like Walmart and CVS. It’s worth noting that if online sportsbooks become legalized in the future, additional banking methods such as e-wallets like PayPal and online bank transfers may become available.
Who is Eligible to Bet in NM?
In order to place sports bets in New Mexico, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- You must present a valid photo ID when visiting a retail sportsbook to verify your age.
Additionally, certain individuals are prohibited from engaging in sports betting in New Mexico, including:
- Athletes, coaches, or members of any professional sports team.
- Referees for professional and college sports leagues.
- Individuals with the professional authority to influence players.
- Individuals with a stake in a sports team.
- Individuals employed by the leagues that create rules for sports (e.g., NBA, NCAA).
- Individuals employed by organizations with licensing from the New Mexico Gaming Control Board, including key staff, owners, directors, and officers.
- Individuals with access to non-public information about a sports team (e.g., player medical records).
- Individuals who have voluntarily excluded themselves from gambling activities.
- Individuals prohibited from betting on a state or federal level (e.g., due to criminal history).
It’s important to adhere to these eligibility requirements to ensure a fair and responsible sports betting environment in New Mexico.
Latest New Mexico Sports Betting Updates
Let’s take a look at the current status of sports betting in New Mexico:
Current Sports Betting Status in New Mexico
Sports betting is offered in New Mexico by the state’s tribal casinos. The first legal bet in the state was accepted on October 16, 2018. As of August 2022, five tribal casinos offer retail sportsbooks. The Navajo Nation has confirmed an interest in introducing sports betting at three of its casinos. Wagering is available on various professional sports, and some casinos allow betting on college sports with certain regulations.
Timeline for Sports Betting in New Mexico
Here are the key milestones in the timeline of sports betting in New Mexico:
- June 2015: Lawmakers and tribes agree to an amendment of the Tribal State Class III gaming compact, explicitly including sports betting as a type of Class III gambling.
- May 14, 2018: The US Supreme Court strikes down PASPA, granting each state the right to legalize sports betting.
- October 16, 2018: The Santa Ana Star Casino, owned by the Pueblo of Santa Ana, launches the first retail sportsbook in New Mexico in partnership with USBookmaking.
- March 4, 2019: The House passes HB 441, which aims to halt the New Mexico Lottery Authority’s plans to launch a parlay betting system.
- March 11, 2019: The Hilton Buffalo Thunder Casino, owned by the Pueblo of Pojoaque, becomes the second tribal casino in New Mexico to open a sportsbook in partnership with National Sports Book Management.
- July 25, 2019: The Mescalero Apache Tribe opens a sportsbook at the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino in partnership with William Hill (now Caesars in the US).
- August 29, 2019: The Route 66 Casino, owned by the Pueblo of Laguna, opens a sportsbook in partnership with the Las Vegas Dissemination Company.
- November 4, 2019: The Pueblo of Isleta becomes the fifth tribe to launch sports betting as its retail sportsbook opens in partnership with USBookmaking at the Isleta Resort & Casino.
As the timeline shows, New Mexico has made significant progress in establishing a regulated sports betting market, driven by the tribal casinos operating retail sportsbooks.
New Mexico Sports Betting Locations
If you’re looking for a retail sportsbook in New Mexico, you have five tribal casinos to choose from, each offering a unique experience:
Santa Ana Star Casino
Address: 54 Jemez Canyon Dam Road, Bernalillo, NM 87004
Website: https://www.santaanastar.com/ | Phone Number: (505) 867-0000
Operator: USBookmaking
The Santa Ana Star Casino was the first to launch a retail sportsbook in New Mexico on October 16, 2018. It offers a wide range of betting markets for NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and college sports (excluding in-state teams). Whether you prefer personalized assistance from sportsbook staff or the convenience of self-service betting kiosks, the Santa Ana Star Casino has you covered. Additionally, the casino features over 200 hotel rooms and various dining options, including the renowned Juniper Steakhouse.
Hilton Buffalo Thunder Casino
Address: 20 Buffalo Thunder Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87506
Website: https://www.hiltonbuffalothunder.com/ | Phone Number: (505) 455-5555
Operator: National Sports Book Management
The Thunder Race & Sportsbook at Hilton Buffalo Thunder Casino provides a state-of-the-art betting experience. With seating available for over 100 people, a full-service bar area, and high-definition screens, it’s the ultimate destination for sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy wagering on NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, tennis, golf, and MMA events. Beyond the sportsbook, Hilton Buffalo Thunder Casino offers 61,000 square feet of gaming space, a championship golf resort, a spa, and a variety of dining options.
Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino
Address: 287 Carrizo Canyon Road, Mescalero, NM 88340
Website: https://innofthemountaingods.com/ | Phone Number: (575) 464-7059
Operator: Caesars
Operated by Caesars, the sportsbook at Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino provides a remarkable betting atmosphere. The renovated sportsbook offers high-top seating and 12 wide-screen TVs, ensuring a fantastic viewing experience. You can enjoy various betting options, including NFL player props, supplied by Caesars. The resort itself offers stunning views of the surrounding area, a championship golf course, and dining options at Wendell’s Steak and Seafood or the Big Game Sports Bar.
Isleta Resort & Casino
Address: 11000 Broadway Boulevard S.E., Albuquerque, NM 87105
Phone Number: (505) 724-3800
Operator: USBookmaking
Isleta Resort & Casino offers an exciting sports betting experience through its partnership with USBookmaking. The sportsbook provides wagering opportunities for various sports, allowing you to immerse yourself in the action. Located in Albuquerque, Isleta Resort & Casino also features a wide range of amenities, including gaming options, dining establishments, and comfortable accommodations.
Route 66 Casino
Address: 14500 Central Avenue S.W., Rio Puerco, Albuquerque, NM 87121
Website: https://www.rt66casino.com/ | Phone Number: (505) 352-7866
Operator: Las Vegas Dissemination Company
Route 66 Casino houses an exciting sportsbook operated by the Las Vegas Dissemination Company. The sportsbook offers a range of betting options, inviting sports enthusiasts to place wagers on their favorite teams and events. In addition to the sportsbook, Route 66 Casino provides an extensive gaming floor, live entertainment, a variety of dining choices, and comfortable accommodations, making it a perfect destination for an all-around entertainment experience.
These five tribal casinos provide a diverse selection of retail sportsbooks, catering to the needs of sports bettors in New Mexico. Each venue offers a unique ambiance, promotions, and additional amenities to enhance your overall gaming experience.
New Mexico Lottery Locations
In addition to tribal casinos, the New Mexico Lottery has played a significant role in the state’s gambling landscape since its launch in 1995. However, as of August 2022, the New Mexico Lottery does not offer sports betting. In 2019, the New Mexico Lottery Authority proposed expanding the lottery product to include parlay sports betting in lottery locations throughout the state. However, lawmakers passed HB 441 to oppose this expansion, preventing the implementation of parlay sports betting through the New Mexico Lottery.
Therefore, as it currently stands, the New Mexico Lottery focuses solely on traditional lottery games, and no further attempts to bring sports betting to lottery locations have been made. Sports betting enthusiasts in New Mexico must visit one of the tribal casinos to enjoy the excitement of placing sports wagers.
Off-Track and Stadium Betting Locations
In New Mexico, sports wagering is limited to retail sportsbooks located within tribal casinos. There are no off-track betting (OTB) locations to bet on sports events. The state’s five racinos, which feature horse racing tracks and on-site casinos, do not currently offer sports wagering. However, visitors to these racinos can enjoy pari-mutuel betting on live and simulcast horse races. The racinos in New Mexico are:
Ruidoso Downs Racetrack and Casino
Address: 26225 US-70, Ruidoso Downs, NM 88346
Phone Number: (575) 378-4431
Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino
Address: 1200 Futurity Drive, Sunland Park, NM 88063
Phone Number: (575) 874-5200
Sunray Park and Casino
Address: 39 Road 5568, Farmington, NM 87401
Phone Number: (505) 566-1200
The Downs Racetrack and Casino
Address: 145 Louisiana Boulevard N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87108
Phone Number: (505) 767-7171
Zia Park Racetrack and Casino
Address: 3901 W. Millen Drive, Hobbs, NM 88240
Phone Number: (888) 942-7275
These racinos offer horse racing enthusiasts the opportunity to engage in thrilling pari-mutuel betting on both live and simulcast races.
New Mexico Responsible Gambling Resources
For individuals who may be concerned about the potential risks associated with gambling, New Mexico provides various resources for responsible gambling:
- New Mexico National Council for Problem Gambling: This organization offers a 24/7 live chat and helpline to provide support and resources for individuals facing gambling-related issues. (Phone: (800) 522-4700)
- Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico: This association provides problem gambling support, including treatment programs and counseling for problem gamblers and their families. They offer a 24/7 helpline for immediate assistance. (Phone: (800) 572-1142)
- Gamblers Anonymous: Organizing meetings across New Mexico, Gamblers Anonymous provides an opportunity for problem gamblers to find support, share experiences, and work towards recovery. They also offer a treatment program for those seeking professional help. (Phone: (855) 222-5542)
Additionally, the New Mexico Gaming Control Board operates a statewide self-exclusion program, allowing individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from visiting any licensed gaming facility, including retail sportsbooks. Sportsbooks are also expected to implement responsible gambling measures, including staff training and offering betting limits, to promote a safe and enjoyable gambling environment.
Teams to Bet on in New Mexico
New Mexico, despite not having major league teams based in the state, offers sports enthusiasts a range of professional and college teams to support from neighboring states. Here are some major league franchises from nearby states that New Mexicans can get behind:
Arizona
Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
Phoenix Suns (NBA)
Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
Colorado
Denver Broncos (NFL)
Denver Nuggets (NBA)
Colorado Rockies (MLB)
Colorado Avalanche (NHL)
Oklahoma
Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA)
Oklahoma City is the home to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA.
Texas
Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
Dallas Mavericks (NBA)
Houston Texans (NFL)
Houston Rockets (NBA)
Houston Astros (MLB)
Texas Rangers (MLB)
Dallas Stars (NHL)
Utah
Utah Jazz (NBA)
Salt Lake City is the home to the Utah Jazz in the NBA.
While supporting these teams, New Mexicans can also root for their local college sports teams:
New Mexico Lobos
Representing the University of New Mexico, the Lobos have 16 varsity teams competing in the Mountain West Conference. They enjoy a fierce football rivalry with the University of Arizona’s Arizona Wildcats and the New Mexico State Aggies, known as the Rio Grande Rivalry. The Lobos have achieved three National Championships in cross-country and skiing.
New Mexico State Aggies
Based at New Mexico State University, the Aggies field 16 varsity teams competing in various sports. They are members of the Western Athletic Conference, with plans to transition to Conference USA in 2023. The Aggies have a strong basketball program, making 19 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament appearances, including a Final Four appearance in 1970.
Furthermore, New Mexico offers opportunities to support minor league sports teams such as the Albuquerque Isotopes, a Triple-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies in baseball; the Duke City Gladiators in indoor football; and the New Mexico Ice Wolves in junior ice hockey.
While New Mexico may not have major league teams within the state, it still offers a diverse range of sports to enjoy and teams to cheer for from neighboring states, along with local college and minor league sports.
How Does New Mexico Compare to Other States?
Let’s explore how New Mexico’s sports betting landscape compares to other states:
Market Coverage
New Mexico’s retail sportsbooks offer a variety of betting options for major professional sports leagues such as NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. Additionally, betting lines are available for niche sports like MMA and NASCAR. However, each casino may have different regulations regarding betting on college sports, with some not accepting bets on in-state collegiate teams.
If online sports betting becomes legalized in the future, it would expand the market coverage and introduce more betting options, including niche sports like cycling, lacrosse, and table tennis. Online sportsbooks typically offer broader coverage and a wider range of markets compared to retail betting locations.
Competitive Odds & Prices
New Mexico’s retail sportsbooks provide betting odds from various brands operating across the US, such as Caesars and USBookmaking. While online sportsbooks offer enhanced promotional offers like boosted odds, in-person betting at retail sportsbooks still provides generous betting lines. Caesars, for example, offers attractive odds, especially for NFL player props.
As online sports betting becomes legalized, the entry of major US sportsbook brands into the New Mexico market would increase competition among operators. This competition would likely result in improved odds and pricing, benefitting sports bettors in the state.
Gambling Revenue
As tribal casinos have no obligation to report earnings from sports betting, the exact gambling revenue and tax figures related to sports betting in New Mexico are not publicly available. However, New Mexico’s population size (~2.1 million) is comparable to West Virginia’s (~1.8 million). Although West Virginia has fewer major league franchises, it has experienced significant sports betting revenue since both retail and online sports betting are legal in the state. As of June 2022, West Virginia has handled $1.5 billion in sports bets, with sportsbooks generating revenue of $117,285,971. The state has collected $11,728,597 in taxes, given a tax rate of 10%.
If online sports betting were to be legalized in New Mexico, it could expect to see similar revenue and tax figures to those observed in West Virginia, benefiting both the state’s economy and tax coffers.
Betting Taxes
In New Mexico, sports bettors are required to pay taxes on their wagering winnings. All gambling winnings, including sports betting winnings, must be declared to the IRS. If the winnings exceed $600, individuals must complete a W-2G form. Sportsbooks may withhold up to 25% of winnings for tax purposes. Additionally, sports betting winnings are subject to state income tax, with rates ranging from 1.7% to 5.9% in New Mexico. Each sportsbook also pays an excise tax, calculated as 0.25% of the monthly betting handle, regardless of its operating location. Finally, operators must pay $50 for every employee involved in taking wagers, as mandated by the Internal Revenue Code.
It’s crucial for sports bettors in New Mexico to comply with tax regulations and include their winnings in state income tax returns to fulfill their tax obligations responsibly.
Who Oversees Sports Betting in New Mexico?
The New Mexico Gaming Control Board serves as the overall gambling authority in the state. However, sports betting operates under tribal gaming compacts signed in 2015, which allow the tribal casinos in New Mexico to offer sports wagering. While the New Mexico Gaming Control Board enforces responsible gambling measures and oversees the regulation of all gambling activities, including the tribal casinos’ sportsbooks, each tribe has its own tribal gaming authority. These tribal gaming authorities are responsible for enforcing regulations specific to their respective tribal casinos.
As a result, different tribal casinos in New Mexico may have varying rules and regulations for their sportsbooks, particularly when it comes to betting on college sports. These regulations ensure fair and responsible sports betting practices while also promoting a secure gambling environment for all bettors in the state.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New Mexico offers a unique sports betting experience through its tribal casinos that have launched retail sportsbooks. While online sports betting is currently unavailable, these retail sportsbooks provide a range of betting options for major professional sports, along with niche sports. Visitors and residents of New Mexico can enjoy the excitement of wagering on various sports by visiting one of the five tribal casinos operating sportsbooks.
It’s important to note that responsible gambling resources and regulations are in place to ensure a safe gambling environment. If any concerns arise, individuals can access helplines and support programs provided by organizations like the New Mexico National Council for Problem Gambling and the Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico.
As the sports betting landscape evolves, it’s essential to stay updated on any changes to legislation that may impact the availability of online sports betting or the introduction of additional retail sportsbooks in the state. Whether you’re a dedicated sports fan or a newcomer to sports betting, New Mexico provides an immersive and enjoyable experience for all enthusiasts.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about sports betting in New Mexico:
Is betting legal in New Mexico?
While not formally legalized, sports betting is currently offered at five retail sportsbooks within New Mexico’s tribal casinos under a gaming compact signed in 2015.
Who governs sports betting in New Mexico?
Sports betting is overseen by the New Mexico Gaming Control Board, which enforces responsible gambling regulations. However, tribal gaming regulators also govern retail sportsbooks within the tribal casinos.
How old do you have to be to bet in New Mexico?
In order to place sports bets in New Mexico, individuals must be at least 21 years old. They will be required to present a valid photo ID to verify their age.
When did sports betting launch in New Mexico?
New Mexico’s first legal sports bets were accepted on October 16, 2018, at the Santa Ana Star Casino operated by USBookmaking.
Where can I bet on sports in New Mexico?
Currently, you can only place bets at retail sportsbooks located within the five tribal casinos in New Mexico: Hilton Buffalo Thunder Casino, Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino, Isleta Resort & Casino, Route 66 Casino, and Santa Ana Star Casino. Online sports betting is not legally available in the state.
Are sportsbooks in New Mexico safe?
Yes, New Mexico’s retail sportsbooks are regulated by tribal gaming authorities and required to comply with strict safety and fairness measures. Additionally, the New Mexico Gaming Control Board oversees responsible gambling practices within the state.
Do I have to pay taxes on betting winnings in New Mexico?
Yes, all gambling winnings, including sports betting winnings, must be declared to the IRS. For winnings exceeding $600, individuals must complete a W-2G form. Sportsbooks may withhold up to 25% of winnings for tax purposes. Sports betting winnings are also subject to state income tax, with rates varying from 1.7% to 5.9% in New Mexico. Sportsbooks themselves are subject to excise taxes and other financial obligations as per the Internal Revenue Code.
Can you play DraftKings/FanDuel/BetMGM/Caesars/TwinSpires in New Mexico?
No, online sports betting is not currently legalized in New Mexico. Therefore, popular online sports betting platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and TwinSpires are not available within the state. However, some platforms may offer Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) games, which can be played in New Mexico.
Which sportsbooks will be available in New Mexico in the future?
Currently, there are no specific plans for major US sportsbook brands to launch in New Mexico. However, the Navajo Nation has expressed interest in introducing sportsbooks at its tribal casinos, potentially expanding the options for sports bettors. The introduction of online sportsbooks could also attract additional operators to the state in the future.
