Minnesota Sports Betting: Outlook for July 2024

Is Sports betting in Minnesota legal?

Simply put, sports betting is not allowed in Minnesota. After the Supreme Court overturned PASPA in May 2018, each state had the authority to decide whether or not to legalize sports betting.

In Minnesota, known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, certain statutes, such as sections 609.75 and 609.76, were enacted. These laws declare that placing a bet in the state is considered a felony. Sports betting and online gambling are automatically prohibited, with only the state lottery, horse racing, and lawful gambling activities such as bingo and raffles being allowed.

Surprisingly, Minnesota came close to legalizing sports betting in 2022 despite previous unsuccessful efforts. A bill, House File 778, was introduced by lawmakers in March 2022 to permit sports betting at tribal casinos and licensed online sportsbooks in the state. Although the bill passed through several committees and the House of Representatives, it did not receive a vote in the Senate before the legislative session ended in late May.

The bill ultimately did not pass because of a disagreement between lawmakers and state tribes. The amendment allowing sports teams and racetracks to obtain licenses for their own Minnesota sportsbooks caused the tribes to withdraw their support.

In 2023, bills (HF 2000 and SF 1949) were introduced to grant Minnesota tribes exclusive rights to the sports betting market, but ultimately no action was taken. This indicates that there are still legislators who strongly oppose the legalization of sports betting.

At first, the forecast for 2024 appeared bright as various entities in Minnesota, including state tribes, tracks, charities, and local sports teams, were dedicated to making progress. However, the optimism was dampened as the bill for sports betting did not get passed in time, resulting in a delay until 2025 when it will be revisited in the next legislative session.

Notable Minnesota sports betting developments

Despite sports betting not being legal in Minnesota, lawmakers continue to discuss the topic and propose new bills. While none of these proposals have led to full legalization, the ongoing interest and dialogue surrounding the issue give hope to many fans.

Let’s revisit the most recent news and examine the progress made in the past few years and months.

• January 2021 — A few sports betting bills are introduced but fail to move forward. 

• February 16, 2022 — Minnesota finally has bipartisan support for retail and online sports betting. 

• February 18, 2022 — DraftKings includes Minnesota as a target market for its online sportsbook. 

• March 8, 2022 — A new sports betting legislation is introduced, House File 778. 

• March 24, 2022 — The Minnesota House of Representatives State Government Finance and Elections Committee moves HF 778 forward, followed by the Judiciary Finance and Civil Law Committee. 

• May 12, 2022 — Minnesota House of Representatives votes in favor of HF 778 with 70 votes in favor and 57 against.

• May 23, 2022 — The state Senate declines to vote on HF 778 and adjourns for the year. 

• September 18, 2022 — A poll shows Minnesotan’s stance on sports betting (48% are in favor, 33% are against, and 19% are neutral). 

• January 4, 2023 — The Minnesota Indian Gaming Association voices its support for sports betting at tribal casinos again. 

• February 20, 2023 — Sen. Matt Klein and Rep. Zack Stephenson have introduced sports betting companion bills SF 1949 and HF 2000. The bill gives MN tribes exclusivity over sports betting in the state. 

• March 29, 2023 — DraftKings launches a horse-branded app in Minnesota. 

• May 22, 2023 — The MN House and Senate 2023 regular session adjourns without voting on the latest bills. Discussions can resume in 2024. Lawmakers like Sen. Scott Dibble voice concerns over sports betting negatively affecting low-income communities. 

• June 27, 2023 — MN sports betting proponents are optimistic that the practice could become legal in 2024. 

• January 26, 2024 — Sen. Jeremy Miller speaks optimistically about legalizing sports betting in Minnesota this year ahead of the state’s next legislative session scheduled for Feb. 12. Sen. Matt Klein and Sen. John Jasinski also spoke about prioritizing the legalization of sports betting.

• June 28, 2024 — Governor Tim Waltz appoints two new members to the state Racing Commission, raising questions about a potential conflict of interest.

Minnesota sports betting: legal quick facts

Expected Minnesota sportsbooks

The legalization of sports betting in 2024 remains uncertain, but if approved, a significant influx of sportsbooks are anticipated to seek licenses.

Despite this, it is uncertain how many operators will enter the market in the future. Comparatively, Iowa, with a lower population, has up to 17 operators, while Minnesota has 11 tribes operating 19 casinos. It is likely that the number of sportsbooks in Minnesota could reach as high as 19. The top five contenders for the market are listed below.

DraftKings

DraftKings is positioned as the leading candidate to dominate the future Minnesota sports betting market. With existing presence in the state through its DFS and horse racing apps, DraftKings has expressed interest in targeting Minnesota for its sports betting platform. Known for its top-quality betting experience and user-friendly interface, DraftKings covers a wide range of sports leagues and tournaments.

• App Store Ratings: 4.8 (App Store) and 4.7 (Google Play)

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: 60 minutes to 7 days

Potential Minnesota Underscoreg: A Review of DraftKings Underscoreg

FanDuel

FanDuel, a highly popular sportsbook in the US, is consistently ranked alongside DraftKings. Known for its reliable reputation and innovative live-streaming feature, FanDuel offers extensive coverage of sporting events with competitive odds and diverse betting options. Additionally, customers can take advantage of a variety of valuable promotions on a regular basis.

• App Store Ratings: 4.7 (App Store) and 4.7 (Google Play)

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: 1–10 business days

Potential Minnesota Underscoreg: FanDuel Review

BetMGM

BetMGM is a comprehensive sports betting app that can be accessed in numerous states. With a strong brand reputation in most markets, it is positioned as a top contender for the emerging Minnesota sports betting industry. The platform boasts a user-friendly interface with a sleek, modern design. BetMGM provides a wide range of betting options across various sports events, with competitive odds that set it apart from the competition.

• App Store Ratings: 4.8 (App Store) and 4.4 (Google Play)

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: Up to 5 business days

Potential Minnesota Review: BetMGM Review

Caesars

Caesars, a prominent gambling brand, operates a sportsbook in over 20 states, including nearby Iowa and Michigan. Its reliable banking system, top-notch security measures, and attractive welcome packages have garnered praise. If Caesars were to expand into Minnesota once sports betting is legalized, customers can anticipate the same high level of quality and service.

• App Store Ratings: 4.6 (App Store) and 4.2 (Google Play)

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: 1–5 business days

Potential review of Caesars Underscoreg in Minnesota

BetRivers ⚡

BetRivers, a well-established sportsbook operating in multiple states, is seeking to further expand its reach into new markets. Known for its stellar reputation, this sports betting platform offers wagering options on over 20 sports and a wide variety of events. Additionally, customers can take advantage of weekly promotions, such as popular boosted odds offers.

• App Store Ratings: 4.4 (App Store) and 2.9 (Google Play)

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: 1–14 business days

Potential Minnesota Review: BetRivers Review

Minnesota sports betting neighbors

Although Minnesota has not yet legalized sports betting, some neighboring states have. It is important to stay informed about the developments in nearby states as it may provide insight into the potential for Minnesota to legalize sports betting in the future.

Now, let’s examine the circumstances in the neighboring states of Minnesota, such as Iowa and Michigan.

Michigan

Michigan’s sports betting market, which debuted in 2020 with the opening of MGM Grand Detroit, has quickly become one of the largest in the region. Currently, the state boasts 13 legal sportsbooks and more than 20 retail sports betting locations.

In addition to offering full sports betting, Michigan stands out as one of the few states where online casinos are legal. Furthermore, it consistently ranks in the top 10 for monthly betting handles.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin allows retail sports betting but does not permit mobile betting within the state.

Since sports betting was legalized in July 2021, the Oneida tribe has held exclusive rights to the activity. Currently, the only brick-and-mortar sportsbook is located at Oneida Casino in Green Bay. However, there are upcoming plans to open sportsbooks at Mole Lake Casino and Lodge and the Menominee Casino Resort.

Iowa

Iowa was an early adopter of sports betting, fully legalizing it in August 2019. The state offers both retail and online sports betting options. Initially, in-person registration was required for online accounts, but this requirement was removed in 2021.

Iowa’s low licensing fees have led to the state having 17 different online sportsbooks, despite its relatively small population of around 3.1 million. This has attracted bettors from nearby states like Minnesota, where sports betting is not yet legal, to come to Iowa to place their bets.

South Dakota

Since November 2020, retail sports betting has been officially authorized in South Dakota, exclusively offered in the city of Deadwood alongside its numerous retail casinos.

In order to make a wager, residents of South Dakota must go to one of the many casinos that have sportsbooks available. Some options include Cadillac Jack’s Gaming Resort, Dakota Connection, and Dakota Sioux Casino.

North Dakota

North Dakota is one of the states without sports betting legislation, but bettors can still legally place wagers due to the state’s tribes opening retail sportsbooks, exercising their rights under federal law.

A few of the sportsbooks near the Minnesota border are Dakota Magic Casino, Rumors, The Bowler, and Turf Club.

Minnesota sports betting step-by-step start guide

Although sports betting is currently not legal in Minnesota, when it becomes legalized, online sportsbooks are expected to have similar registration and betting processes. This has been demonstrated by major sportsbooks in other states, where their websites are generally consistent.

Taking that into consideration, here is how you can begin placing bets once the market is live.

Select a Underscoreg Licensed in Minnesota

To start, make sure you choose a licensed Minnesota sportsbook. Once the market is officially regulated, there will probably be multiple options available, so be sure to compare their features to find the best fit for you. Factors to consider include the range of sports and betting options, the quality of promotions, the size of the welcome bonus, the competitiveness of odds, the speed of payouts, and other important details.

Register an Account

After selecting a sportsbook, go to the official website and click on the Register/Join/Sign-Up button to begin the registration process. Enter your personal information, verify your location, and confirm your phone number or email. This should only take a few minutes to complete.

Deposit and Claim the Bonus

Go to the deposit area and select a payment method. Make sure to choose the welcome bonus or enter a promo code before depositing the necessary funds. It is recommended to review the bonus terms beforehand to understand the conditions.

Choose and Place a Bet

Now that you have the money, go to the betting section and choose the sport you are interested in. Look through the available events and select the one you wish to bet on. Examine the different betting options, then click on the odds to add them to your bet slip. Enter the amount you want to wager and confirm the bet.

Withdraw Your Payout

After meeting the necessary wagering conditions and rollover requirements for the bonus, you are eligible to request a withdrawal. Simply navigate to the Withdrawal section, select your preferred payment method, enter the desired amount to cash out along with the necessary details. Verify the withdrawal request and patiently await approval from the site, at which point the funds will be transferred to you.

Minnesota sports leagues and teams to bet on

Minnesota is the home of numerous professional and semi-professional sports teams, with representation in each of the big four leagues. Additionally, the state boasts a WNBA team, the Minnesota Lynx, who have secured four championships, and a Major League Soccer franchise, Minnesota United FC. The majority of teams hail from Minneapolis and share the unique distinction of being named after the state itself.

Minnesota has had other professional sports teams in the past, such as the Minneapolis Lakers, an NBA franchise that relocated to Los Angeles and became the well-known Lakers. The team had won multiple NBA championships before moving to LA in 1960.

Sports betting by category

Explore our collection of resources for the top sportsbooks tailored to individual sports and leagues.

Minnesota sports betting and the taxman

The most recent sports betting legislation, HF 778, introduced a 10% tax on operators. Additionally, bettors should be aware that any gambling winnings are subject to state income tax, ranging from 5.25% to 9.85%, depending on marital status and income level. It is important to note that gambling winnings are also subject to federal taxes.

Currently, state taxes are imposed on winnings from legal gambling activities. Once sports betting becomes legal, it is expected that the same tax rates will apply, as they already do for profits from horse racing betting.

What’s missing from Minnesota sports betting?

Like in many states where sports betting is legal, residents of Minnesota will probably have the opportunity to wager on a wide range of sports events. Nevertheless, there could be certain restrictions in place, so it is important to understand how this may be implemented in Minnesota.

Politics ❌

In Minnesota, it is highly unlikely that US bettors will have access to political betting opportunities, such as wagering on the midterms or presidential elections, unlike bettors in other countries.

Entertainment Award Ceremonies ❌

The Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, and MTV Awards will not be included in the new bill and are expected to remain excluded even if new betting laws are enacted.

Esports ✅

Bill 778 is currently under consideration and allows for esports betting in Minnesota, provided that specific requirements are met. This means that residents of Minnesota may soon have the opportunity to wager on competitions for popular games such as Fortnite, Dota 2, Counter-Strike, Rocket League, and Apex Legends.

What About Daily Fantasy Sports? 

DFS is not specifically mentioned in Minnesota’s gambling laws, and they are also not included in the latest sports betting bill. Despite this, DFS operates separately from traditional sports betting and can still be accessed in states without specific regulations. This includes Minnesota, where popular DFS sites like DraftKings and FanDuel are still available.

Minnesota college sports betting 🎓

College sports are expected to be included in Minnesota sports betting, even though they are not specifically mentioned in the latest bill.

Regardless of the circumstances, betting on in-state college teams may continue to be prohibited in many states unless the teams participate in competitions outside of the state borders.

Responsible Minnesota sports betting

Although sports betting is currently not allowed in Minnesota, the state is dedicated to addressing problem gambling. Bettors should also take this issue seriously, as gambling problems can easily develop if caution is not exercised. It is crucial to set limits on both time and money spent on gambling, and avoid chasing losses at all costs.

Once the market is legalized, licensed Minnesota sportsbooks will be required to provide a range of responsible gambling tools, such as cool-off periods, deposit limits, loss limits, bet limits, and self-exclusion options.

Regarding other state-wide tools, you can access resources and toll-free phone lines on the websites of the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling and the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

1-800-GAMBLER is the national helpline for gambling in the United States.

Underscoregs to avoid in Minnesota

Many bettors from Minnesota and other states without licensed online sportsbooks turn to offshore platforms. However, this can lead to issues such as non-payment, bonus denial, or sudden account closure without explanation. It is advisable to steer clear of offshore sportsbooks and instead use platforms in neighboring states or participate in DFS and sweepstake sites for a safer betting experience.

To highlight the issue of utilizing offshore sports betting sites in Minnesota, we provide a brief summary of the most infamous platforms that we recommend readers steer clear of. Additionally, we have compiled a “Worst Online Underscoregs List” for your reference of sites to avoid.

List of Minnesota sports betting resources

Minnesota General Assembly is the state legislature.

Attorney General’s Office of Minnesota

Minnesota Legal Services provides convenient access to legal information in Minnesota.

National Council on Problem Gambling provides resources for individuals impacted by problem gambling.

Growth of sports betting 📈

In 2018, the repeal of PASPA by the U.S. Supreme Court led to a significant increase in legal sports betting across the United States. Nearly 30 states have now legalized various forms of sports betting, with common regulations involving the approval of online sportsbooks and mobile betting applications. Explore our legal sports betting tracker for detailed information on any state of your choice.

In the last two years, states such as Ohio and Massachusetts have seen tremendous success with their online betting platforms. This has not only provided sports fans with a new way to connect with their favorite teams, but has also generated significant revenue for the states through licensing fees and taxes.

On March 11, 2024, legal sports betting became available in North Carolina, introducing eight top sportsbooks to the state. With major events like the Copa America and Euro 2024 soccer tournaments taking place throughout the summer, the excitement and opportunities for sports betting fans are on the rise.