Online Betting Wisconsin

Online Betting Wisconsin 3,7/5 1799 votes

Legal Online Sports Betting Age in Wisconsin Provided that sports betting is currently illegal in Wisconsin, a legal age for this type of activity still hasn’t been voted. The issue of cannabis possession is treated likewise. Whether it be for medical or recreational use cannabis has not been legalized. Wisconsin prohibits real money gambling online, including casino-style games and sports betting. This distinction limits the number of Wisconsin online sportsbooks that players can choose from even more than in other parts of the country. Second, Wisconsin has taken legal steps to address players using offshore betting sites as well.

The Wisconsin Legislature has explicitly prohibited betting in Wisconsin outside of Native American casinos. This law extends to Wisconsin online sports betting, even those using providers based outside of the state. The current state of these laws means that no Wisconsin sportsbooks are active. The Current Online Sports Betting Situation in Wisconsin It is not currently legal to bet on sports in Wisconsin and given the state’s slow reactions in the past, legal sports betting is going to take some time. Thanks to a landmark Supreme Court ruling in May of 2018, every state has the freedom to create its own laws around sports gambling. Online Horse Racing Betting in WI Wisconsin law is unclear on the legality of advance deposit wagering. State statutes do not specifically authorize online horse racing betting, but neither do they prohibit it. As a result, some horse racing betting sites accept customers from Wisconsin and others do not.

Wisconsin is a state synonymous with blue-collar, down-to-earth people and values. Its largest city’s baseball team references beer-making in its mascot, and the fans of the only NFL football team in the state (whose mascot is derived from a meat-packing company) are nicknamed after the incredible amount of cheese manufacturing that occurs in the state.

So it should come as no surprise that there are several options for gambling in the state. However, it is not a free-for-all by any means. Gaming must exist in a specific set of circumstances, primarily on tribal lands. Wisconsin sports betting is illegal.

Sweepstakes casinos in Wisconsin

Social casino options

With such extensive options in the state, the social casino side of things in Wisconsin is surprisingly anemic. Only one casino, Lake of the Torches, offers a Play4Fun network site where players can try the casino’s roster of slot machines (or similar ones) for free. It seems to be a good way to generate new customers — particularly young people who are newly legal to go to the casino. However, this is the only Wisconsin casino to take up that particular flag.

Otherwise, the options for social gaming in the state are much like those in other states. Slotomania, BigFish, Double Down Casino, and Zynga Poker offer players the opportunity to play their favorite (or sometimes, fantastical) slot machines or poker games without risking a dime.

Wisconsin players can also take advantage of the MyVegas app offered by MGMResorts. This allows customers to generate real-world comps for MGM properties and partners throughout the US. Although Wisconsin is not particularly close to most of these partners, the opportunity to create travel options does exist for the dedicated MyVegas player in the state.

Online gambling

Wisconsin’s gambling laws are like those in many states, in that there is no specific prohibition or allowance for gambling in the online sphere. As with many aspects of government, the law is slow to adapt to new technologies. Wisconsin’s gambling statutes offer a very meat-and-potatoes approach to the subject, so to speak. The fact that commercial casinos are not permitted would tend to make venturing online to gamble a risky proposition.

However, there may be a foot in the door through Wisconsin state representative, Tyler Vorpagel. He has fought for legal online fantasy sports and sports betting on a couple of occasions, but nothing has passed. His bill would have established a regulatory framework for operators to exist in Wisconsin and provide their services to all of the state’s residents. Overall, this represents a movement, at least from a portion of the electorate in Wisconsin, toward a legal framework for online gaming. So there is hope for the future.

Likely online gambling operators

OperatorNotes
FanDuel/DraftKingsUndisputed market leaders of daily fantasy sports industry;
Agreed to merger in November 2016;
Likely beneficiary of Rep. Vorpagel’s bill
Ho-Chunk NationWidespread land holdings throughout the state – not a single contiguous reservation;
Own/operate more casinos than any other tribe in the state
Forest County Potawatomi Indian TribeOwn/operate two casinos in Wisconsin;
Potawatomi Bingo Casino is largest casino in state of Wisconsin
Oneida Tribe of IndiansLargest tribe by population (by far) in Wisconsin;
Own five casinos or gambling outlets in the state

State casino operator history

Wisconsin’s history with regard to gambling is a decidedly conventional one. The state’s path to legalization mirrors the path of many other states. Like many states, its first foray into gambling was racing. Racing of any type has always been legal in Wisconsin, but wagering on the races, be they horse, dog, or car, was made illegal by a law dating back to 1897.

However, the siren song of easy tax revenue led to the introduction of numerous bills over the years to legalize wagering on races. To credit the fortitude from opponents of gambling, the bills failed for 90 years. To the credit of supporters of gambling, they never gave up. They were finally rewarded with a constitutional amendment in 1987 that legalized gambling in the state.

Normally, this would be a happy ending – but alas, even though five dog racing tracks eventually opened, all have now closed. Currently, the only news about racing in Wisconsin is questions about how to redevelop the former sites.

Around the same time of the racing legalization, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act was passed into federal law. this act allowed federally-recognized Native American tribes to negotiate compacts with their states to build and operate full Vegas-style casinos on reservation lands. Wisconsin is home to 11 such tribes, and in good faith, the state government began to negotiate with the tribes soon after the bill’s passage.

Casino options

The arrangements reached during this period of time are responsible for the situation in Wisconsin today. The 11 tribes own and operate 22 casinos throughout the state. The nation with the greatest number of casinos (by far) is the Ho-Chunk Nation, which controls six properties. However, the Potawatomi Nation owns the title for the largest single casino. Their Potawatomi Bingo Casino in Milwaukee features over 3,100 slot machines, 100 table games, a large poker room, and all the comforts expected at a typical resort property.

Wisconsin Lottery

Finally, Wisconsin offers residents and visitors a chance to buy state and multi-state lottery tickets. The state began offering drawings in 1988. Somewhat unusually, the revenue from the ticket sales goes to property tax relief for Wisconsin residents. Almost every other state that offers a lottery ties the proceeds to funding educational resources.

Below are the tribes operating casinos in Wisconsin and the casinos under their control.

Tribes with land-based casinos

TribeCasinos Owned & Operated
Bad River Band of Chippewa IndiansBad River Lodge and Casino
Forest County Potawatomi Indian TribePotawatomi Carter Casino Hotel;
Potawatomi Bingo Casino
Ho-Chunk NationHo-Chunk Gaming Black River Falls;
Ho-Chunk Gaming Nekoosa;
Ho-Chunk Gaming Tomah;
Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells;
Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg
Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians of WisconsinGrindstone Creek Casino;
Lac Courte Oreilles Casino, Lodge & Convention Center
Lac du Flambeau band of Lake Superior ChippewaLake of the Torches Resort Casino
Menominee Tribe of WisconsinMenominee Casino-Bingo-Hotel
Oneida Tribe of Indians of WisconsinOneida Main Casino;
Oneida Mason Street Casino;
IMAC Casino/Bingo/OTB;
Oneida Casino Travel Center;
Oneida One-Stop Packerland
Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians of WisconsinLegendary Waters Resort and Casino
Sokaogon Band of Lake Superior ChippewaMole Lake Casino
St. Croix Chippewa Indians of WisconsinSt. Croix Casino Danbury;
St. Croix Casino Hertel Express;
St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake
Stockbridge-Munsee Band of the Mohican TribeNorth Star Mohican Casino Resort

State legal environment

Permitted/Offered?Notes & Restrictions
Land-based GamblingYesTribal casinos only
Online GamblingNoFailed attempt to legalize in 2017
LotteryYes
Charitable or House-based GamblingYesRaffles, bingo, and home games permitted
Minimum Gambling Age18 for bingo; 21 for casinos

Sports betting is an industry that is beginning to flourish across the United States. Recent changes to laws and regulations have caused the industry to take off in several states.

However, Wisconsin sports betting remains prohibited. We’ll go into the details of these regulations in this guide. We’ll also go over some options you’ll have if and when WI sports betting is legalized.

Contents

Daily Fantasy Sports in Wisconsin

Despite the general prohibition on Wisconsin sports betting, daily fantasy sports are available in the state. This is because fantasy sports services do not fall under the same legal classification as Wisconsin betting sites.

As is the same in most of the country, the prevailing legal view in the state is that fantasy sports do not fall under the category of Wisconsin sports betting because fantasy sports involve a certain degree of skill. This sets it apart from traditional gambling on games of chance.

Major fantasy sports services are already accepting customers in Wisconsin. This is despite no existing legislation mentioning the service. A bill has been introduced to formally legalize and regulate betting in Wisconsin on daily fantasy sports. As of late 2020, it has not yet been passed.

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Most Likely Wisconsin Sportsbooks

Even though betting in Wisconsin is not yet available, that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare ahead of time. Take a look at these top providers that may come to the state if WI sports betting launches.

All of the following are well-established, US-based companies. That ensures that they will all comply with any regulations surrounding Wisconsin online sports betting once WI sports betting is available.

FOX Bet

The FOX network already provides fans with live coverage of various sporting events. Now they’ve started offering sportsbook services as well. Expect them to expand and offer Wisconsin sportsbook services once they’re permitted to with FOX Bet.

This service caters to new players, so it will be perfect for the new Wisconsin sports betting industry once it launches. They currently operate in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Indiana, and Colorado. Look out for their Wisconsin sports betting apps in the future.

FanDuel Sportsbook

As you’ll see below, daily fantasy sports are already available for betting in Wisconsin. FanDuel sportsbook is one of the top providers for daily fantasy sports and offers services as a sportsbook too. Their Wisconsin sports betting apps will allow players to keep sports wagers and fantasy sports conveniently in one place.

FanDuel operates in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, West Virginia, Indiana, and Tennessee. Keep an eye on their likely expansion if Wisconsin sports betting launches.

DraftKings Sportsbook

Like FanDuel, DraftKings is already available for Wisconsin sports betting on fantasy sports. Their Wisconsin sports betting apps will allow bettors in the state to keep their games all in one place.

DraftKings sportsbook currently operates in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, New Hampshire, West Virginia, Indiana, and Tennessee. It may expand to join other Wisconsin betting sites once the industry opens up.


Wisconsin Betting Laws

Online Betting Wisconsin

Nationwide, the legal landscape around sports betting changed with the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (or PAPSA). The ruling lifted the federal prohibition on sports betting, allowing states to decide whether to legalize or prohibit betting independently. So, where does that leave Wisconsin sports betting?

The Wisconsin Legislature has explicitly prohibited betting in Wisconsin outside of Native American casinos. This law extends to Wisconsin online sports betting, even those using providers based outside of the state. The current state of these laws means that no Wisconsin sportsbooks are active.

Despite the current prohibition, the repeal of PAPSA has left the decision in the hands of state officials. So what is the current outlook for Wisconsin sports betting?

States where you can already place an online sports bet today :

Updated on :

Colorado Illinois Indiana Iowa Michigan Nevada New Jersey Pennsylvania Tennessee Virginia West Virginia


Future of Wisconsin Online Sports Betting

The current legal momentum in state legislatures across the country is moving away from prohibition and towards regulated betting. The revenue brought in by states that have legalized betting shows the change can be very financially lucrative. However, there are signs that change may be slower to come for Wisconsin online sports betting.

No bills are currently up for debate in the state Legislature. Furthermore, the bill would require approval by both the state’s Assembly and Senate in two consecutive sessions. It would then go to a state-wide referendum to leave the choice with voters.

There are further political complications, as well. The compacts which regulate Native American casinos currently prohibit the tribes from accepting Wisconsin sports betting. Any potential changes to the law would also involve renegotiating the agreements between the state government and the tribes.

As of late 2020, it seems like Wisconsin sports betting may yet be far off. However, there is one current option for betting in Wisconsin.

Online Betting Wisconsin

Wisconsin Online Sports Betting: Events and Betting Markets

Though Wisconsin sports betting is currently restricted, Wisconsin betting sites will have future offerings for local events. Since they take place right in the state, these events are sure to be popular for WI sports betting.

Popular Wisconsin Sporting Events

The state is home to some of the most historic motorsports tracks in the country. The famous Milwaukee Mile is the second oldest motorsports track in the world that is still operational. The racetrack previously served as the venue for the IndyCar Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series, which will be popular events for future Wisconsin betting sites.

Online sports betting wisconsin

Road America is another local track hosting races in the area dating back to 1955 to the present day. This track serves as the venue for events such as the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, NASCAR Xfinity Series, SCCA Pirelli World Challenge, and the IndyCar Series.

All of these motorsports events are popular among bettors where the sports betting market is operational. Once Wisconsin sports betting is offered, expect these to be top picks on any Wisconsin sports betting apps.


Betting on Pro Sports Teams in Wisconsin

Wisconsin hosts several professional sports teams. These are sure to be popular offerings for future Wisconsin sportsbooks and Wisconsin sports betting apps.

NFL Betting in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is home to one of the oldest professional football teams in the country, the Green Bay Packers. Fans will be able to wager on their team once WI sports betting launches.

Green Bay Packers Betting

With their four Super Bowl rings and nine pre-Super Bowl titles, the Packers earned Green Bay the nickname ‘Titletown.’ The Packers will be one of the top offerings in Wisconsin sports betting once the service becomes available.

NBA Betting in Wisconsin

Another professional team playing out of Wisconsin are the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks.

Milwaukee Bucks Betting

With one NBA championship to their name, Wisconsin sports betting is sure to offer bets on these local favorites bringing home a new title. The Bucks have had strong players on their roster, including past greats like Kareem Abdul-Jabar and new stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo.

NHL Betting in Wisconsin

There are currently no NHL teams based out of the Badger State. Wisconsin sportsbooks will have to focus on out-of-state teams when it comes to hockey.

MLB Betting in Wisconsin

Online Betting Wisconsin

Best Online Betting Sites

Neighbors to the Milwaukee Bucks, Wisconsin also hosts baseball’s Milwaukee Brewers. These hometown favorites are sure to be big-ticket items for Wisconsin online sports betting.

Milwaukee Brewers Betting

Since coming to Milwaukee in 1970, the Brewers have made an appearance in the World Series, but have not brought home a title. Wisconsin sports betting will offer fans a chance to bet on their team securing their first championship if the state legalizes the industry.


Other Wisconsin Teams to Bet On

As well as these professional sports, there are plenty of college teams for future Wisconsin sports betting markets. With their passionate followings, college teams are sure to be popular offerings on Wisconsin betting sites and other Wisconsin online sports betting if legislation allows for bets on collegiate events.

Betting on College Football in Wisconsin

College football is huge across the country, and the Badger State is no exception. Here are just a few of the college football offerings future Wisconsin sportsbooks will have to pick from for WI sports betting.

Online

University of Wisconsin Badgers

One of the state’s favorite teams, the Badgers are sitting fourth in the Big Ten western conference as of late-2020. WI sports betting is sure to feature this local favorite heavily in the future.

Concordia University Falcons

Though they play their ball a little further down the college football tiers in Division III, the Concordia Falcons are still a well-supported team. Future Wisconsin sportsbooks will have plenty of deals for betting on these and other college football teams.

Betting on College Basketball in Wisconsin

The state is also rich in college basketball teams. Any of these local sides will be perfect for betting in Wisconsin if state laws legalize the industry. We can potentially expect to see all of them featured in Wisconsin sportsbooks.

University of Wisconsin Badgers

Like their football team, the Wisconsin Badgers basketball team will also be perfect for future WI sports betting on local sides. Look for odds on the Badgers bringing home their first title in over 50 years on future Wisconsin sports betting apps.

Marquette University Golden Eagles

The Golden Eagles are a team with a great history, having taken home national championships in 1970 and 1977. Wisconsin sportsbooks will offer fans the chance to bet on their favorite team repeating that feat in the modern era.


Wisconsin Online Sports Betting FAQ

Here’s a quick reference for some common questions about Wisconsin sports betting and future Wisconsin betting sites.

Is it legal to bet on sports online in Wisconsin?

There are no laws allowing for regulated Wisconsin online sports betting. Federal law in the U.S. has recently changed to leave the decision to legalize sports betting to each individual state.

However, the Wisconsin state government has made no move to legalize gambling. The law prohibits gamblers in the state from gambling outside of approved Native American casinos.

When will sports betting be legalized in Wisconsin?

There is no set date for when the Wisconsin sports betting industry will be open up. Any legislation to legalize and regulate Wisconsin sports betting faces a steep legislative challenge to be signed into law. Residents will have to wait for such a change before betting in Wisconsin.

Can I bet on daily fantasy sports in Wisconsin?

Daily fantasy sports are currently available in Wisconsin. That is because these services are viewed as games involving some skill, rather than Wisconsin betting sites. The state has not formally legalized daily fantasy sports, but some bills to do so have gone to the state legislature.

Can I bet from my phone in Wisconsin?

Most sports betting providers do offer a mobile service available on phones. However, Wisconsin sports betting is currently prohibited. There will need to be a change in the law before these Wisconsin sports betting apps become available.


Final Thoughts on Betting in Wisconsin

Wisconsin sports betting is currently prohibited. Nationally, regulations that restrict sports betting have started to lift as states see the revenue that regulated gambling brings in. However, betting in Wisconsin remains prohibited.

There is an exception for daily fantasy sports. These are considered games of skill rather than chance under the law, so don’t classify them as Wisconsin online sports betting. Daily fantasy sports providers are among the most likely to provide future Wisconsin sportsbooks and Wisconsin sports betting apps once the industry launches in the state.

For now, there aren’t any Wisconsin betting sites taking customers. Sports fans in the state will have to wait for a change in regulations to start using Wisconsin sports betting apps. Until then, keep up to date on any updates on Wisconsin sports betting laws so you can play legally.