The history
Louisiana's gambling history is as rich and diverse as a Creole gumbo, with a long-standing tradition of both above-board and backroom gambling activities. The state has dealt a full hand of gambling forms, from horse racing and lotteries to casino gambling, each with its own unique tale to tell.
The latest ace up Louisiana's sleeve is the legalization of sports betting. In the November 2020 election, residents from 55 out of 64 parishes voted in favor of sports betting, setting the stage for lawmakers to draft legislation to make the voters' choice a reality. Over several months in 2021, Governor John Edwards inked bills that set a tax rate, established a legal framework, and outlined how the revenue from sports betting would be split.
The first Louisiana sportsbooks opened their doors in October 2021, and mobile betting apps joined the party on January 28th, 2022. Other legal online betting options in Louisiana include daily fantasy sports and pari-mutuel horse racing wagering. For those who prefer the brick-and-mortar experience, the state offers tribal casinos, riverboat casinos, racetrack-casinos (racinos), and the state lottery.
Louisiana's open-door policy to licensing has created a fertile field for betting bonuses and promotions. Big-league operators with deep pockets have been quick on the draw in the race to attract new customers in the Louisiana sports betting market.
Louisiana's approach to gambling has evolved with the times, reflecting shifts in societal attitudes and economic needs. The state's gambling history has seen periods of tight control and periods of liberalization, with the current era being one of the most open in terms of legal gambling options.
The future
The future of gambling in Louisiana is looking as bright as a jackpot light, particularly with the recent embrace of online sports betting. This move has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for both operators and bettors.
Louisiana's open-door policy on licensing has set the stage for a competitive market, teeming with betting bonuses and promotions. Major operators, armed with hefty marketing budgets, are already jockeying for position, offering enticing incentives such as site credits, bonus bets, and more to new customers.
With each of the state's 20 casinos allowed to operate two online sports betting skins, and the state lottery permitted to run one, the Louisiana online sports betting market could potentially host up to 41 mobile sportsbook brands. This means that Louisiana residents can look forward to a wide array of betting options, with many of the nation's leading online sportsbooks likely to join the fray.
Looking ahead, the state's embrace of online sports betting could be a game-changer, leading to increased revenue for the state and a more diverse and vibrant gambling scene. As Louisiana continues to adapt and evolve its gambling landscape, one thing is certain: the future of gambling in the state is a bet worth taking.