Louisiana Legal Sports Betting Overview
LA Sports Betting Law Details
Status
– Retail Sports Betting Launch Date: October 31, 2021
– Online Sports Betting Launch Date: January 28, 2022
– Licensed Sportsbooks: Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, WynnBET, Betfred (retail only), Louisiana Downs Sportsbook (retail only), Rez Sportsbook (retail only)
– Legal Wagering Options: Futures, moneylines, parlays, point spreads, same game parlays, teasers, totals
– Legal Gambling Age in LA: 21+
– Sports to Bet On: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, MMA, tennis, golf, boxing, motorsports, cricket, European soccer, college sports betting
– Permitted Banking Options: Mastercard, PayNearMe, PayPal, Play+, Skrill, Visa, Automated Clearing House (ACH), casino cage cashier
– Louisiana Gambling Regulator: Louisiana Gaming Control Board
Louisiana Legalizes Sports Betting
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards signed SB 142 and SB 247 on June 21, 2021, to legalize sports betting in the state. However, Louisiana has unique laws that restrict betting to only 55 out of the state’s 64 parishes. Following a ballot vote in November 2020, betting is prohibited in Caldwell, Catahoula, Franklin, Jackson, La Salle, Sabine, Union, West Carroll, and Winn parishes. While both land-based and online sports betting were legalized, retail sportsbooks were launched first in October 2021. Louisiana now has 17 retail sportsbooks, all of which are required to partner with a land-based casino. Additionally, betting is permitted in licensed bars and restaurants through kiosks. Online sportsbooks were launched in January 2022, with seven out of a maximum of 20 online sportsbooks currently operating, including BetMGM, Caesars, and DraftKings.
Louisiana Online Sportsbooks Compared
Best Mobile App – DraftKings
DraftKings, available in 17 states, offers one of the best mobile sportsbook apps for Louisiana bettors. The app has a user-friendly interface and quick navigation. It provides live markets with fast updates and exclusive features like live streaming and event notifications.
Best Welcome Bonus – BetMGM
Bettors in Louisiana can enjoy a generous welcome bonus from BetMGM – a risk-free bet up to $1,000. If your first wager wins, you keep the profits, and if you lose, the sportsbook offers free bets of equal value to your initial wager. High-stakes bettors can receive five identical free bets if their first stake was above $50. The profits from bets placed using this bonus have no wagering requirements.
Best for Competitive Odds – BetMGM
BetMGM stands out with its wide range of boosted odds, offering better profit potential than other sportsbooks. Through partnerships with major sports leagues like MLB, NBA, and NHL, BetMGM provides higher odds on selected markets. It also offers exclusive offers and betting lines in collaboration with the PGA Tour.
Best for Market Coverage – Caesars
Caesars offers a diverse range of sports and markets, including popular options like NBA, NFL, and MLB. In addition to complying with Louisiana Gaming Control Board regulations, Caesars offers a variety of bet types for each sport. For example, its MLB bets include options for singles, doubles, and total bases, which can’t be found on other platforms. Caesars also allows bettors to combine multiple wagers into same-game parlays. Niche sports like MMA, golf, and Aussie Rules are also included on Caesars Sportsbook.
Best for Beginner Bettors – BetRivers
BetRivers provides a user-friendly website design with a simple interface, making it ideal for novice bettors. The platform presents odds in a clear manner, and the bet slip is designed to facilitate easy understanding of American odds. Additionally, bettors can find generous promotions on the sportsbook’s promotions page.
Best for Payout Speed – FanDuel
While most Louisiana sportsbooks process payments within 48 hours, FanDuel stands out for its quick payment processing. Many FanDuel Sportsbook withdrawal requests are credited instantly to bettors’ accounts. However, some payments may take longer, especially for first withdrawals or payments that require additional checks. Payment options like bank transfers may take more time for processing.
How to Place a Bet in Louisiana
Placing a bet in Louisiana is a straightforward process, even for those new to online sports betting. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Choose an Online Sportsbook: Select one of the seven licensed online sportsbooks available in Louisiana. You can either use the sportsbook’s website or download the mobile app from their site or app stores.
2. Register an Account: Complete the sign-up process by providing your full name, address, date of birth, email, gender, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Create a secure password for your account.
3. Verify your Location: Enable your mobile device’s location services to confirm that you are located in a parish where online sports betting is legal. This step ensures compliance with state regulations.
4. Make a Deposit: Visit the sportsbook’s cashier section and choose a payment method. Select your desired deposit amount and follow the provided instructions to complete your first deposit. Certain welcome bonuses may require a minimum qualifying deposit to unlock.
5. Explore Betting Markets: Browse through the available betting markets on the sportsbook. Add a market to your bet slip, choose your wager amount, and place your bet.
6. Verify your Identity: Before withdrawing any winnings, you will need to verify your identity. Upload necessary documents such as a photo ID and utility bill to prove your identity and address.
7. Cash Out your Winnings: If your bet is successful and you want to withdraw your winnings, visit the sportsbook’s cashier section and follow the instructions provided for cashing out your funds.
Banking Methods Available in Louisiana
Louisiana’s online sportsbooks offer a variety of banking methods to facilitate deposits and withdrawals. Some common options available to bettors in the state include:
– Visa and Mastercard: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted for deposits, although American Express may not be accepted by some sportsbooks.
– Direct Bank Transfers: You can transfer funds directly from your bank account to your sportsbook account.
– E-wallets: Popular e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill are available for convenient and fast deposits and withdrawals.
– Play+: Many sportsbooks offer a Play+ prepaid card, allowing you to deposit funds and withdraw winnings easily.
– PayNearMe: This method allows bettors to top up their sportsbook accounts at retail locations like CVS and 7-Eleven.
– In-person Deposits and Withdrawals: If you are near a land-based casino or retail sportsbook, you can visit the betting counter or casino cash cage to deposit or withdraw funds.
Who is Eligible to Bet in Louisiana?
To place bets legally in Louisiana, individuals must meet the following criteria:
– Age Requirement: Bettors must be 21 years of age or older to participate in sports betting activities within the state.
– Residency Restrictions: Only individuals in parishes where sports betting is legal are eligible to bet. Betting is prohibited in Caldwell, Catahoula, Franklin, Jackson, La Salle, Sabine, Union, West Carroll, and Winn parishes.
– Prohibited Positions: Athletes, coaches, referees, and individuals with professional authority to influence players are not allowed to place sports wagers. Employees of organizations with licensing from the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, including key staff, owners, directors, and officers, are also prohibited from betting. Individuals who have a stake in a sports team or possess non-public information about a team are likewise restricted. Additionally, individuals prohibited from betting on a state or federal level due to criminal history or self-exclusion cannot participate.
Latest Louisiana Sports Betting Updates
Louisiana permits both online and retail sports betting. The state’s regulations allow betting on major US sports leagues, European sports, and in-state college teams. However, the legality of sports betting varies by parish. While online sports betting is legal in 55 out of the 64 parishes, it is prohibited in Caldwell, Catahoula, Franklin, Jackson, La Salle, Sabine, Union, West Carroll, and Winn parishes. Retail sports betting is available at licensed sportsbooks throughout the state.
Current Sports Betting Status in Louisiana
Both online and retail sports betting are legal in Louisiana. However, online sports betting availability varies by parish, with nine parishes where online sports betting is not permitted. Retail sports betting is available at various locations throughout the state, including land-based casinos, licensed bars, and restaurants.
Timeline for Sports Betting in Louisiana
– January 28, 2022: Online sports betting goes live in Louisiana, with DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, FanDuel, Barstool Sportsbook, and BetRivers all launching.
– October 31, 2021: Retail sports betting launches in Louisiana as Caesars Sportsbook takes the first bets at Harrah’s New Orleans Casino.
– August 23, 2021: Emergency sports betting rules from the Louisiana Gaming Control Board are passed, and the board begins licensing sportsbook operators.
– June 21, 2021: Governor Edwards signs SB 142 and SB 247, legalizing online sports betting in Louisiana.
– June 4, 2021: Governor Edwards signs HB 697.
– May 13, 2021: SB 247 is introduced to the Senate, outlining legal sports betting regulation. Senator Patrick Page Cortez, Sen. Ronnie Johns, Sen. Rick Ward, and Representative John Stefanski sponsor the bill.
– April 22, 2021: HB 697 is introduced to the House, covering tax and regulations for sports betting in Louisiana. Representative Stefanski sponsors the bill.
– April 12, 2021: SB 142 is introduced to the Senate, focusing on sports betting revenue from legal sports betting. Sen. Ward, Sen. Cortez, and Sen. Johns sponsor the bill.
– November 2020: Sports betting is approved in 55 out of 64 parishes in Louisiana.
– June 11, 2020: SB 130 places sports betting on the November ballot. The bill is sponsored by Sen. Cameron Henry and Sen. Johns.
– May 2018: The US Supreme Court strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA), allowing individual US states to legalize sports betting.
Louisiana Sports Betting Background
Louisiana has a rich gambling history, with the state having had the most casinos in the US at one point. However, in 1813, the state prohibited casinos outside of New Orleans, and in 1866, casinos within New Orleans were also banned. It wasn’t until 1992 that land-based casinos were reintroduced in the state. Horse racing returned in the 1920s, and Louisiana currently has numerous off-track betting sites. Daily Fantasy Sports were legalized in 2019, but the push to include sports wagering did not garner enough support at the time.
Future of Louisiana Sports Betting
The Louisiana betting market is expected to grow further, with additional online sportsbooks planning to enter the state. BlueBet, in partnership with Louisiana Downs Casino & Racetrack, is set to launch its sportsbook in the second quarter of 2023. Other prominent US sports betting brands, including Bally Bet, Sporttrade, and Betfred, are also anticipated to launch in Louisiana in the near future.
Louisiana Sports Betting Locations
Louisiana has 23 land-based casinos, 17 of which are partnered with sportsbook operators to offer retail sports betting. Some of these casinos include:
– Harrah’s New Orleans (Operator: Caesars)
– Horseshoe Casino (Operator: Caesars)
– Sam’s Town Shreveport (Operator: FanDuel)
The full list of land-based casinos in Louisiana, along with their addresses, phone numbers, and operators, can be found above.
Louisiana Lottery Locations
The Louisiana Lottery Corporation licenses bars and restaurants with Class A liquor licenses to operate retail sports betting kiosks. However, there haven’t been any official announcements regarding the implementation of this license yet. Currently, betting cannot be done at lottery retailers.
Off-Track and Stadium Betting Locations
Due to state regulations, sportsbooks in Louisiana must partner with a land-based casino, and there are currently no stadiums with retail sportsbooks. However, there are several off-track betting locations overseen by the Louisiana Racing Commission, primarily based around the state’s horse racing tracks.
Louisiana Responsible Gambling Resources
Louisiana provides resources for individuals struggling with gambling-related issues, including:
– Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling: Offers a helpline and live chat for those in need of assistance. Provides advice and training to prevent problem gambling.
– Louisiana Department of Health: Outlines symptoms of problem gambling and offers links to organizations that provide help.
– National Council on Problem Gambling: Provides links to resources, phone numbers, and live chats for support. Refers individuals to local and national organizations.
Louisiana also offers a state-wide self-exclusion policy, allowing individuals to prohibit themselves from accessing betting sites within the state. Additionally, sportsbooks are required to provide account tools like deposit limits and cool-offs to promote responsible gambling.
Teams to Bet on in Louisiana
You can bet on a variety of professional and college sports teams in Louisiana, including:
Pro Sports:
– New Orleans Saints (NFL)
– New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)
College Sports:
– Grambling State Tigers
– Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks
– Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns
– Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
– LSU Tigers
– McNeese State Cowboys
– New Orleans Privateers
– Nicholls Colonels
– Northwestern State Demons
– Southeastern Louisiana Lions
– Southern Jaguars
– Tulane Green Wave
You can also support prominent teams from neighboring Texas, like the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, Houston Rockets, Houston Astros, and more.
How Does Louisiana Compare to Other States?
Market Coverage:
Louisiana offers excellent market coverage, including all major US sports leagues, European sports, and in-state college teams. The state permits betting on college teams within the regulated state, while some states, such as New Jersey, do not allow it. However, the regulation of eSports events in Louisiana is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Competitive Odds & Prices:
Louisiana sportsbooks provide competitive odds comparable to those available in other states. Odds boosts and promotions are also offered, with BetMGM providing daily odds boosts and great odds on major sports events.
Gambling Revenue:
Louisiana charges a 15% tax on online sports betting and a 10% tax on retail wagers. The state’s sports betting handle reached over $628 million in April 2022, with revenue of $53.8 million and taxes of $7.3 million. These numbers are expected to increase rapidly as online sports betting gains popularity in Louisiana.
Betting Taxes:
Sportsbooks in the US are subject to federal excise taxes and employee fees. Additionally, bettors are required to report their winnings to the IRS. Specific tax forms and withholding rules may apply. These regulations are standard across many states, including Louisiana.
Who Oversees Sports Betting in Louisiana:
The Louisiana Gaming Control Board oversees all sports betting activities in the state, ensuring compliance with regulations, collecting fines and taxes, and promoting responsible gambling. The Louisiana Lottery Corporation also plays a role in regulating sports betting kiosks in licensed bars and restaurants.
Conclusion
In summary, Louisiana has made significant strides in legalizing sports betting, both online and at retail locations. The state offers a diverse range of sports and wagering options, with multiple licensed online sportsbooks and a growing number of land-based sportsbooks. The Louisiana Gaming Control Board and the Louisiana Lottery Corporation oversee and regulate sports betting activities in the state, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting responsible gambling. Bettors can enjoy a safe and convenient betting experience, with various banking methods available. With a comprehensive market coverage and competitive odds, Louisiana’s sports betting market continues to grow, attracting both casual and seasoned bettors.
