AGA's Freeman: Federal Sports Betting Ban Will Fall In 3-4 Years

The federal ban on sports gambling in most of the country will fall within the next three to four years, said American Gaming Association President & CEO Geoff Freeman. Speaking in SBJ's N.Y. offices, Freeman predicted the sports leagues would eventually support legalized sports gambling, as would broadcasters seeking a new source of advertising. Currently, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) bans sports gaming in all states but Nevada, and allows sports lotteries conducted in Oregon, Delaware and Montana.

Recent events, including the rise of daily fantasy sports and both the NFL and NHL approving teams in Las Vegas, have led some observers to think PASPA will fall. Freeman said the conditions for getting Congress to approve legalized sports gambling were “never better.” While it may take until '20, Freeman expects hearings on the subject to begin later this year. AGA is a casino industry lobbying group.