This report examines sports betting in the United States. This includes assessing current legislation and operational models. The report provides an overview and history of sports betting in the United States. It also identifies social and economic outcomes of sports betting. Social impacts of sports betting include:
- Sports betting is most popular among young, well-educated men
- Problem and at-risk gambling is higher among sports bettors
- Participation rates have increased among the United States between 2018 and 2021
Economic impacts of sports betting include:
- There is mixed evidence of substitution or cannibalization of other types of gambling when sports betting is introduced
- Sports betting as a limited net economic benefit for the state's economy
- While there is limited potential for economic benefit, there is greater potential for economic harm
The report includes policy recommendations for sports betting in Massachusetts. The recommendations intend to highlight the benefits of sports betting while also reducing harms. Recommendations cover various topics including types of operators, taxation rates, and problem gambling prevention.
