New Law: Lamont Signs CT Online Gambling & Sports Wagering

CONNECTICUT — Gov. Ned Lamont has signed into law legislation that will legalize online gaming and sports wagering in Connecticut.

Specifically, the new legislation will allow the Mohegan Tribe, Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and the Connecticut Lottery Corporation to offer online gaming and sports wagering.

The state and the tribes will seek approval from the Bureau of Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of Interior to amend their compact. The federal agency must approve the changes to the compact before online gaming and sports wagering can begin in the state.

"I am confident that the federal government will see fit to approve these amendments to our compact, and in the coming months we can launch a modernized, 21st century gaming experience in Connecticut," Lamont said.

The legislation received strong bipartisan support in both chambers of the Connecticut General Assembly.

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Chairman Rodney Butler said: "Gaming is more than a business to our tribe, it is the way we fund our government, pay for our children’s education, care for our elders, and provide healthcare to our members. The agreement not only ushers in a new modern era of gaming, but it solidifies our tribal/state partnership for years to come."

The legislation is House Bill 6451, "An Act Concerning the Authorization, Licensing and Regulation of Online Casino Gaming, Retail and Online Sports Wagering, Fantasy Contests, Keno and Online Sale of Lottery Tickets."