Understanding Sports Betting Legality Across Key U.S. States: What You Need to Know in 2025
Introduction: The Changing Landscape of Sports Betting in the U.S.
Sports betting in the United States has undergone a dramatic transformation since the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018. Today, the question of legality is determined by each state, resulting in a patchwork of regulations and opportunities. If you are wondering about the status of sports betting in states like Maryland, Oregon, Michigan, Florida, Maine, Kansas, Missouri, and others, this guide provides comprehensive, actionable information to help you participate confidently and legally.
Maryland: Legal and Regulated Sports Betting
Maryland offers both in-person and online sports betting under a regulated framework. Residents and visitors can place bets through state-licensed operators, ensuring a safe and compliant experience. To get started, you can visit any officially licensed retail sportsbook at Maryland casinos or download approved sportsbook apps after verifying your eligibility. Always confirm the operator holds a valid state license before placing wagers. Maryland also enforces strict rules prohibiting athletes and individuals associated with teams from betting, and there are additional safeguards to ensure responsible gaming [4] .
Oregon: Online and In-Person Options Available
Sports betting is legal in Oregon for both online and in-person wagering. The state operates its primary online sportsbook through the Oregon Lottery. Users can sign up by visiting the Oregon Lottery’s official sportsbook platform, verify their identity and age, and start betting on a wide range of sports and events. For in-person betting, several tribal casinos offer regulated sportsbook services. It is essential to use only platforms authorized by the Oregon Lottery or tribal regulators to guarantee compliance and security [3] .

Source: thinkwy.org
Michigan: Robust Market with Multiple Operators
Michigan boasts one of the most robust sports betting ecosystems in the nation, with both retail and online betting fully legalized. The Michigan Gaming Control Board oversees all licensed operators. To participate, you can register with any approved online sportsbook, such as those operated by major national brands, or visit a licensed casino for in-person wagering. Michigan law strictly prohibits athletes and those with insider information from betting; violators face significant penalties [4] . For the most current list of approved operators, consult the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s official site.
Florida: Legal Status Remains Unsettled
The legal landscape for sports betting in Florida is complex and subject to ongoing litigation. While there have been efforts to launch legal sports betting through agreements with the Seminole Tribe, court challenges have created uncertainty. As of mid-2025, sports betting is not broadly available to the public, and any betting activity should be approached with caution. Before attempting to place a wager, you are advised to check the latest announcements from the Florida Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering or major news outlets to determine if legal options have become available. Do not use unregulated or offshore betting sites, as these may be illegal and lack consumer protections.
Maine: New Entrant with Regulated Offerings
Maine has recently legalized sports betting, allowing both retail and online wagering. The state’s regulator, the Maine Gambling Control Unit, is responsible for licensing operators and ensuring player safety. To get started, you should contact the Maine Gambling Control Unit or visit their website for the list of approved sportsbooks. Before placing bets, verify that the platform has received formal authorization from state regulators. This ensures that your bets are secure and any winnings are protected under state law.

Source: shareyouressays.com
Kansas: Newly Legalized and Rapidly Growing Market
Sports betting in Kansas is fully legal, with both retail and online options available since September 2022. To participate, you may visit a licensed casino or register with one of the approved online sportsbooks. As of 2025, six major online operators are active, including BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, ESPN BET, Fanatics Sportsbook, and FanDuel [1] . Before betting, always ensure the operator is on the official Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission’s list. The state imposes a 10% tax on sports wagering revenue, supporting public services and regulatory oversight.
Missouri: Legalization Approved, Launch Coming Soon
Missouri has approved sports betting, with operations expected to begin by December 1, 2025 [3] . The state will offer 21 digital sports betting licenses tied to professional sports teams, casinos, and standalone operators. If you are interested in sports betting in Missouri, monitor official communications from the Missouri Gaming Commission for launch dates and a list of approved operators. Until the market launches, refrain from using unlicensed platforms, as these are not protected by state law.
Other States: Quick Reference Guide
If you are curious about the legal status in additional states not specifically covered above, you can consult national sports betting resources or check with your state’s gaming control board. For example, states like Indiana, Iowa, and Ohio also offer legal sports betting, with a mix of online and in-person options. In contrast, states such as Oklahoma and South Carolina still prohibit sports betting, so residents of those states should not attempt to place wagers until laws change [3] .
How to Bet Legally and Responsibly
To ensure your sports betting activities are legal and safe, follow these steps:
- Always confirm the legal status of sports betting in your state by consulting your state’s gaming commission or official government website.
- Register only with licensed and regulated operators. These operators are subject to state oversight and provide consumer protections.
- For online sports betting, complete all required identity and age verification processes before depositing funds or placing bets.
- Familiarize yourself with local rules regarding who can bet-many states strictly prohibit athletes, officials, and those with access to insider information from participating.
- Set personal betting limits and take advantage of responsible gaming tools offered by most licensed platforms. Many states provide resources for those who feel at risk of developing problem gambling behaviors.
- When in doubt, search for your state’s official gaming or lottery commission for the most current and accurate information. Avoid any website or operator that does not clearly display its license and regulatory status.
Responsible Gaming and Player Protection
Betting responsibly is crucial for maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience. Most state-regulated platforms offer features such as deposit limits, self-exclusion programs, and access to support services for those who may need assistance. National organizations, such as the National Council on Problem Gambling, provide confidential help and educational resources. If you or someone you know may be experiencing difficulties, reach out to these organizations or use the responsible gaming tools provided by your chosen sportsbook operator [2] .
Key Takeaways and Next Steps
The legal status of sports betting varies by state and is subject to change. Maryland, Oregon, Michigan, Kansas, and Maine offer regulated sports betting markets with both in-person and online options. Missouri will soon join this group, while Florida’s situation remains unsettled. To participate legally, always use state-licensed operators and consult official state gaming resources for the latest updates. In states where sports betting is not yet legal, refrain from wagering until local laws change. Responsible betting practices and awareness of state-specific regulations will help ensure your experience is both safe and enjoyable.
References
- [1] RG.org (2024). The Complete Guide to States Where Sports Betting is Legal in the US.
- [2] PGA Tour (2024). Where is sports betting legal? U.S. betting landscape heading into 2025.
- [3] Deadspin (2025). Where is Sports Betting Legal? Status of Every US State in 2025.
- [4] Legal Sports Report (2025). Sports Betting States: Latest US Legislation & Bill Tracker.
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