Bally Bet Still Coy on Massachusetts Launch Date to Chagrin of Regulators

Bally Bet has not fulfilled its obligation to obtain the sports wagering license it was granted as one of the original eight Massachusetts sports betting apps, leading to frustration from state regulators due to its delayed launch.

Bally Bet has held a highly sought-after Bay State sports betting license for more than a year, but there is still no definite timeline for the launch of the betting brand in Massachusetts, according to the sportsbook.

During a Thursday meeting of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC), Commissioner Nakisha Skinner expressed her frustration by stating, “I believe it is important for Bally’s to come before us and clarify their intentions. It has been a significant amount of time since the license was approved. It is our responsibility as a Commission to inform the people of Massachusetts about Bally’s plans for the state and when they will be implemented.”

Where’s the urgency?

Bally Bet has invested $2 million so far in its goal to enter the competitive Massachusetts legal sports betting market, with an initial $1 million application fee and a $1 million renewal fee.

It is quite curious that Bally Bet has not yet launched in Massachusetts, leading some to speculate about their reluctance to do so.

At present, there are only seven Massachusetts sports betting apps available in the state’s market, which has been consistently reliable compared to other states. The Commission carefully selected operators for the sports wagering scene, including some of the top sports betting apps. However, Bally Bet’s slow progress is causing frustration among many.

Cathy Judd-Stein, the chair of the Commission, reflected on the approval process, stating that being approved by the state is a valuable asset. She emphasized Bally Bet’s approval as a Massachusetts sports betting app as a special privilege.

Some have accused the company of avoiding launching in Massachusetts in order to focus on expanding its presence in Rhode Island.

During Thursday’s meeting, Stein inquired whether they were not operating in Massachusetts in order to benefit Rhode Island.

So, when? 

A decision on Bally Bet’s inclusion in the top Massachusetts sportsbooks is still pending, as there is currently no fixed timetable. However, efforts are being made to encourage the provider to establish a timeline for their decision.

Despite the MGC’s numerous efforts to assist the sports betting provider in expediting the process, Bally Bet allegedly thwarted these attempts. This led MGC director of sports wagering Bruce Band to send a letter requesting clarification and specific details regarding the company’s launch plans in the Massachusetts market.

According to a conversation reported by Band with Brett Calapp, Bally’s Chief Operating Officer of its North America interactive business, the closest the company has come to a commitment for launch in Massachusetts was in Q2.

The next steps

The MGC seems ready to compel Bally Bet and its representatives to attend a meeting soon to discuss the delayed launch plans.

Commissioner Brad Hill suggested being stricter in requiring Bally’s executives to meet with the Commission, even if it means doing so before them. This follows Commissioner Skinner’s earlier remarks that Bally’s leadership should provide an explanation for the delay in their launch.

The timing of the launch of the Bally Bet product in Massachusetts remains uncertain, but one thing is certain – the Massachusetts Gaming Commission is growing impatient and is determined to gather the necessary information about Bally Bet’s entry into the state’s expanding market.