Massachusetts Online
Sports Betting

Updated March 4, 2024‍

Introduction to Massachusetts' Online Betting Landscape

‍Massachusetts has officially entered the sports betting arena, offering a variety of online sportsbooks and enticing bonuses for bettors within the state. With eight online sportsbooks now live, Massachusetts residents have a wealth of options for placing their wagers on a wide range of sporting events.

Available Bonuses for Massachusetts Bettors

‍BetMGM: Unlock a new user offer with the BetMGM Massachusetts for a 20% deposit match up to $1,500 in sports bonus.

‍Fanatics: Access the exclusive Fanatics Sportsbook Massachusetts offer: Bet $100, Get $100 in Bonus Bets for 10 consecutive days.

‍ESPN BET: New members can avail of a welcome bonus, where any sportsbook bet nets $150 in Bonus Bets.

‍Caesars: Utilize the Caesars Sportsbook to receive up to $1,000 back in Bonus Bets if your first bet doesn't win.

‍FanDuel: A special sign-up offer for Massachusetts: Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first wager is successful.

‍PrizePicks (DFS): Benefit from a first-time deposit match of at least $100 with PrizePicks.

Note that PrizePicks operates as a Daily Fantasy Sports platform, not a traditional sportsbook.

To participate in sports betting in Massachusetts, bettors must be 21 years or older and physically present within the state.
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Massachusetts Sports Betting Legalization Timeline

The journey to legal sports betting in Massachusetts was a multi-year process involving legislative proposals, debates, and eventual agreement. Here's a chronological overview of the key milestones leading up to the legalization of sports betting in the state.

Early Discussions and Legislative Attempts (2018-2020)

‍May 2018: The Supreme Court of the United States overturns the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), allowing states to legalize sports betting. This ruling prompts initial discussions in Massachusetts about introducing sports betting legislation.
‍2019: Massachusetts lawmakers introduce several sports betting bills, signaling a strong interest in legalizing sports betting. However, these early proposals face hurdles in the legislature and do not advance to become law.
‍2020: Efforts to legalize sports betting in Massachusetts continue, with multiple bills proposed during the legislative session. Despite growing support, a consensus on the details of regulation and taxation remains elusive, delaying the legalization process.

Breakthrough and Legislation (2021-2022)

‍2021: Momentum builds as both the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate express interest in legalizing sports betting. The House passes a sports betting bill, but differences with the Senate's version of sports betting legislation lead to further negotiations.
‍Early 2022: The Massachusetts Senate passes its own version of a sports betting bill. Key issues include betting on collegiate sports and tax rates for operators. The differences between the House and Senate bills require resolution in a conference committee.

Finalization and Governor's Approval (2022)
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‍July 2022: After extended negotiations, lawmakers reach a compromise on sports betting legislation. The final bill allows for both online and retail sports betting, sets tax rates, and determines regulatory oversight by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.
‍August 2022: Governor Charlie Baker signs the sports betting bill into law, officially legalizing sports betting in Massachusetts. The law permits betting on professional and collegiate sports, with specific provisions for betting on Massachusetts college teams only during tournament play.

Implementation and Launch (2022-2023)
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‍Late 2022: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission begins the process of drafting regulations, licensing operators, and preparing for the launch of sports betting.
‍January 31, 2023: Retail sports betting officially launches at licensed casinos in Massachusetts, marking the first legal sports bets placed in the state.
‍March 10, 2023: Online sports betting goes live in Massachusetts, with several licensed operators launching their platforms. This marks the completion of Massachusetts' journey to offer comprehensive legal sports betting options to its residents.

Legal Sportsbooks in Massachusetts

The sports betting landscape in Massachusetts features eight premier online sportsbooks, each offering unique bonuses and betting options. Whether you're looking to place a wager on local teams or international sports, these platforms provide a secure and regulated environment for all your betting needs.

Prominent Massachusetts Sportsbooks:

Fanatics Sportsbook: Known for its "Bet $100, Get $100" bonus bets offer.

BetMGM: Offers a substantial deposit match and is the official betting partner of the Boston Red Sox.

FanDuel: Provides a straightforward "Bet $5, Get $150" bonus for new users.

Caesars: Offers up to $1,000 back in bonus bets for new bettors.

ESPN BET: A new addition to the Massachusetts market with a lucrative $150 bonus bets offer.

Key Takeaways for Massachusetts Sports Betting

Online sports betting launched on March 10, 2023, in Massachusetts.

Bettors must be 21 years or older and located within the state.

Betting is available on major American sports leagues, European basketball, cricket, rugby, and more.College sports betting is permitted on out-of-state teams and Massachusetts collegiate teams under certain conditions.

PrizePicks offers a unique DFS experience for Massachusetts residents.

Future of Sports Betting in Massachusetts

As the sports betting market in Massachusetts continues to grow, bettors can expect new sportsbooks to launch, offering even more variety and competitive bonuses. The legalization of sports betting represents a significant milestone for Massachusetts, providing a regulated and exciting way for residents to engage with their favorite sports.

For more information on the legal sports betting landscape in Massachusetts, including tips on getting started and responsible gambling resources, visit the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's website. Remember, responsible gambling is crucial—resources are available for those needing support.