As the 2026 Regular Session begins, Mississippi lawmakers have introduced new legislation aimed at regulating mobile sports wagering and online sweepstakes gaming. The proposed bills, which include multiple measures addressing online sports betting, reflect a significant step towards the state’s evolving gaming landscape.
Key Proposals for Mobile Sports Wagering
In the House of Representatives, HB 1581 seeks to establish the Mississippi Mobile Sports Wagering Act. This legislation aims to legalize “online race book” and “online sports pool” betting within the state, under the oversight of the Mississippi Gaming Commission. The bill outlines specific licensure requirements for operators of online sports pools and race books, emphasizing compliance through geofencing and age-verification measures. Notably, participation would be restricted to individuals aged 21 and older.
Another significant measure, HB 297, proposes amendments to the Gaming Control Act. This bill would revise the definition of “sports pool,” introduce the term “digital platform,” and authorize internet and mobile operations for sports pools and race books via approved platforms. Additionally, it aims to amend the Fantasy Contest Act by lifting the prohibition on contests based on collegiate athletic performances.
On the Senate side, SB 2249 mirrors the House proposals by also being titled the Mississippi Mobile Sports Wagering Act. This legislation would similarly legalize online sports pools and race books, establishing a platform-and-licensee model. It incorporates age verification and geofencing requirements, and earmarks proceeds from the bill’s fee structure to support the Mississippi HOPE Scholarship Program Fund.
Regulating Online Sweepstakes Gaming
Alongside the mobile wagering initiatives, SB 2104 targets online and interactive gaming through amendments to Mississippi’s criminal statutes. This bill explicitly includes online, interactive, or computerized games within existing prohibitions, categorizing them as illegal gambling devices. It proposes to elevate certain violations to felony status, which could lead to significant fines and imprisonment for offenders. Additionally, the bill allows for asset forfeiture linked to these violations and introduces flexibility in prosecution venues, along with contingency-fee arrangements for forfeited assets.
As of now, all proposed bills remain at the introductory stage, having been referred to relevant committees. The pace of committee scheduling and potential amendments will likely dictate the trajectory of these proposals during the 2026 legislative session.
Mississippi’s efforts to regulate mobile sports wagering and online gaming reflect broader trends across the United States, as more states explore the potential revenue benefits associated with legalized sports betting.