Both Missouri Governor Candidates Back Legalization of the Missouri Sports Betting Bill

Missouri governor candidates Crystal Quade (D) and Mike Kehoe (R) both support legalized sports betting in the Show-Me State. This means whomever Missourians elect as their next governor will endorse sports wagering regulation.

Missouri governor candidates Crystal Quade, Mike Kehoe back Constitutional Amendment 2 for legalized sports betting

In addition to Quade and Kehoe, Libertarian candidate Bill Slantz supports pro-sports betting measure Constitutional Amendment 2, which Missouri voters will get to decide during the Nov. 5 general election.

Amendment 2 would set the sports betting tax rate at 10%. Promotional credits are capped at 25% as well. The bill would also allow Missouri’s professional sports franchises along with the state’s 13 casinos to operate retail and online sports betting.

Two online betting platforms would be eligible to receive a license. Winning for Missouri Education is a campaign backing the sports betting ballot initiative. The coalition recently applauded the candidates for their support of legalized sports betting.

“We are honored that the two leading candidates to be Missouri’s next chief executive both endorse legalizing sports betting as a new permanent, dedicated funding source for our classrooms, and plan to vote yes on Amendment 2,” said Jack Cardetti, Winning for Missouri Education spokesperson.

Eilers & Krejcik Gaming’s economic impact study shows grossing gaming revenue could reach nearly $560 million after five years

A recent economic study commissioned by the campaign from Eilers & Krejcik Gaming found that Missouri gross gaming revenue (GGR) could reach nearly $560 million in total after five years of legalized sports wagering.

As a result, Missouri public education would receive up to $105 million in funding over the next five years.

Additionally, the study projects total GGR of $335 million in the first year, growing to almost $560 million by year five. Total tax revenue of $4.7 million is expected in the first year, increasing to $38.7 million in year five.

“It’s important there’s a cap,” said Cardetti. “We did that in Missouri to ensure… $105 million to education over the next five years. In fact, our policy right now is pushing people to help [neighboring states’ schools and businesses].”

If Amendment 2 receives majority approval, Missouri would likely launch sports betting in mid-to-late 2025.