Minnesota House Takes Fresh Run at Sports Betting Bill Following Early Legislative Setback
Minnesota sports betting legislation has gained new momentum with a recently introduced House bill, HF 1842. Nine DFL members proposed this companion piece to the previously stalled Senate bill SF 757, aiming to legalize both online and retail sports betting in the state.
Key Features of HF 1842:
- Grants control to Minnesota's 11 tribal nations
- Sets 22% sports betting tax rate
- Establishes legal betting age at 21
- Includes provisions for charitable gaming organizations
- Creates racing economic development fund
The racing development fund allocates:
- First $12.5 million:
- 40% to standardbred racing tracks
- 60% to thoroughbred/quarter horse racing tracks
- Excess funds:
- 28% to standardbred racing
- 72% to thoroughbred/quarter horse racing
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Current Political Landscape:
- House of Representatives maintains 67-67 tie between Republicans and DFLs
- Bills require 68 votes for approval
- Bipartisan support necessary for committee hearings
- Session ends May 19
This marks the first time Minnesota's tribes, charitable organizations, and Canterbury Park have all supported the same sports betting legislation. House Majority Leader Rep. Harry Niska (R-31A) expressed optimism about cooperation between parties, while House caucus leader Melissa Hortman (DFL-34B) emphasized the need for bipartisan support.
The bill's success depends on gaining Republican support in the House before moving to the Senate for consideration. With Democratic control in both the Senate and governor's office, cross-party collaboration will be essential for the bill's passage.