A nice surprise
Kansas officials have taken most people by surprise after revealing that sportsbooks will actually be able to launch on September 1.
Earlier this week, it looked like Kansas sportsbooks had no chance of going live before the beginning of the NFL season on September 8, but the new timeline would ensure Kansans could wager on the first games.
an official full launch will take place on September 8
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced on Thursday that retail sportsbooks at the four state-operated casinos will open through a soft launch on September 1, while online sportsbooks will also go live on the same date. If all goes to plan, an official full launch will take place on September 8.
Operators getting ready
The four Kansas casinos set for retail sportsbooks include the Boot Hill Casino & Resort, Kansas Crossing Casino & Hotel, Hollywood Casino, and the Kansas Star Casino. Each casino can partner with up to three online sportsbook operators.
A number of online sportsbooks are also ready to launch on September 1. The list includes FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, Barstool Sports, and BetMGM. These operators have received provisional single-year licenses based on their track record in other states.
Commenting on the importance of the betting launch, Gov. Kelly said: “Legalizing sports betting is a common-sense solution that keeps Kansans’ money in Kansas and drives business sporting events, casinos, restaurants, and other entertainment venues.” She went on to thank all of the respective partners that have helped sportsbooks launch in time for the football season.
A quick turnaround
If the launch goes ahead as planned, Kansas has truly shown other states how it’s done in regards to getting betting going quickly. Legislators have not taken long to approve the market for launch. Governor Kelly only signed the legislation in May, with the bill officially becoming law on July 1. The Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission has been busy finalizing regulations for the sports betting sector, with the help of the Kansas Lottery.
The quick turnaround time in Kansas compares favorably to some other states. For example, more than 455 days have passed since Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed a bill into law that legalized online betting; sportsbooks are still not live.
The previous record turnaround time for a state was Iowa, which launched sportsbooks 95 days after legislation received full passage. Kansas is on track to beat that record with around 74 days.