Georgia Senators Seek to Legalize Casinos and Sportsbooks

As legislative sessions rage on, many states are seeking to expand their gaming markets. While most markets are looking to expand existing verticals, the state of Georgia hopes to legalize casinos and sportsbooks.

Spearheaded by four local senators, the measure could introduce important constitutional amendments, paving the way to legal gambling.

SR 131 Could Usher in Gaming

Senate Resolution 131, submitted by senators Billy Hickman, Brandon Beach, Carden Summers and Lee Anderson, proposes a state-wide referendum, which could introduce constitutional amendments allowing casino gaming and sports betting.

If the measure passes and voters approve the change, the Georgia General Assembly will be granted powers to regulate casinos and sportsbooks, allowing the Peach State to catch up to the majority of other states where such products are permitted.

If that happens, Georgia will create a Georgia Gaming Commission (GGC), which will be tasked with regulating gaming. SR 131 would also greenlight at least eight casino licenses.

Georgia’s Plan for the Tax Proceeds

In addition, the resolution would introduce a 20% GGR tax for operators, potentially channeling millions toward state initiatives. The state would also create a Georgia Gaming Proceeds Fund where the proceeds would be directed.  

Georgia would then split the first $2 billion evenly among all counties in the state. Following that, it would set aside $500 million for local governments until the distribution reaches $5 million. Once that happens, the Georgia General Assembly would be allowed to appropriate more funds, so long as at least 5% of the revenue goes to responsible gambling and gambling harm treatment programs.

The tax money would also make the GGC’s operation possible.

Sports Teams and Casino Giants Are Likely to Back the Efforts

Efforts to legalize betting have been supported by many local sports franchises, including the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, and the MLB’s Atlanta Braves. Major casino companies, for which Georgia is a major untapped market, are also likely to join the legalization efforts.

However, there are also those who oppose the legalization of casinos and sportsbooks amid problem gambling and gambling-related crime concerns.

In any case, if SR 131 is to pass, it would need at least a two-thirds majority in the Senate and the House. If that happens, voters will get to weigh in on the matter right before the 2026 general election.

The measure must pass the Senate by March 6 at the latest in order to remain viable for consideration. After that, it will have a few more weeks to make further progress. The Georgia legislative session, for context, is set to end on April 4.