The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has unanimously decided to reopen applications for sports betting licenses, prompted by interest from bet365.
According to Commission Chair Jordan Maynard, this action follows two years after the state’s comprehensive sports betting launch and is occurring during a period of increasing popularity for prediction markets across the country—markets that the MGC does not currently allow.
“It has been two years since our full launch. It’s logical for us to review these available licenses,” Maynard stated, as covered by InGame. “I’m encouraged by the interest from new operators while we see prediction markets, which we do not allow, seeking entry into the sports betting landscape.”
There are currently four untethered online sports betting licenses up for grabs, in addition to several tethered licenses. Commissioners deliberated on whether reopening applications in what some called a “saturated” market was premature, especially before an economic impact assessment was finalized. Ultimately, they concluded that reopening the application process would be beneficial to gauge market interest and ascertain the feasibility of introducing an eighth operator.
Legal representative Justin Stempeck reported that bet365 has shown interest in acquiring a Category 3 untethered license. The company presently operates in 16 states, including Illinois, New Jersey, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
Massachusetts currently has seven operational sports betting operators: BallyBet, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, Fanatics Betting & Gaming, FanDuel, and Penn Interactive. Some of these entities are associated with physical casinos.
As per existing legislation, the state can allocate up to 16 mobile betting licenses— six tethered to casinos, three associated with racetracks, and seven untethered. At the moment, seven of these licenses are active, with four retail sportsbook licenses still available.
Prior to the discussions, Commissioner Nakisha Skinner revealed that she had downloaded the bet365 app and registered an account in a state where sports betting is permitted. She mentioned that she has since uninstalled the app and is closing her account, assuring that she can remain impartial in her decision-making.
In the meantime, Commissioner Eileen O’Brien raised questions about whether it was appropriate to reopen the process without first understanding the potential economic effects. She expressed concerns about whether new applicants would commit to establishing a retail sportsbook location.
The laws in Massachusetts allow for an additional in-person sportsbook beyond the current venues at Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino. “I would prefer to see us understand the implications before we invite potential applicants to move forward,” O’Brien indicated.
Despite these worries, the commission agreed to go ahead with reopening the application window, with the exact timing yet to be determined. Commissioners noted that any new application process should replicate the rigorous public suitability review implemented during the state’s original licensing phase in 2022 and 2023.