Missouri Sports Betting Bill Filed in Extraordinary Session

JEFFERSON CITY, Miss. – Despite not being in session, Rep. Dan Houx filed a sports betting bill in Missouri. But, the bill filed Wednesday but may not get the consideration needed.

The session called by Governor Mike Parsons is for finalizing agriculture tax credits. But Governor Parsons has the ability to modify the session’s agenda.

This comes after 100,000 failed attempts to bet to bet on sports at Kansas sportsbooks while in Missouri.

Context From Rep. Houx’s Office

In an email with LegalSportsBetting.com, the legislative staff for Rep. Dan Houx released this statement:

“The current extraordinary session was called by the Governor to have robust discussion to keep as much of Missourians own money in their hands while ensuring we continue “managing our state finances by balancing our budget every year”. I feel strongly that an important part of that discussion must include removing barriers that cause Missourians to spend their hard earned money in other states. After watching an exodus of Missourians over the last two weeks contribute to Kansans’ economy through sportsbook, it is clear Missouri has missed an opportunity to be responsible in maintaining a balanced budget while also cutting taxes. As Kansas and other surrounding states capitalize at our cost, I believe adding sportsbook to the discussion rises to the level of extraordinary. This is why, despite being outside of the Governor’s call, that I have filed House Bill 4 and I hope the Governor will give serious consideration to expanding the call.”

With support from the KC mayor and the Chiefs, House Bill 4 will undergo discussion on Monday. The measure is similar to HB 2502 – the Missouri sports betting bill that failed in the Senate earlier in the year. Under MO HB 4,

• Missouri casinos are eligible for three mobile skins as well as a retail setup.
• Pro teams like the KC Chiefs can offer online sports betting, but no sportsbook at the stadium.

If nothing advances, expect Houx to file another Missouri sports betting bill. With the 2023 MO legislative session starting Jan. 4, there will be no bills carried over.

News tags: Dan Houx | Kansas City Chiefs | Mike Parsons | Missouri | MO HB 2502 | MO HB 4