For those interested in the legal framework of betting in the Green Mountain State, understanding Vermont Gambling Laws is essential. Unlike the neon glow of casino hubs like Las Vegas or Atlantic City, Vermont’s approach has traditionally been more reserved. However, a significant shift occurred in 2023, marking a new chapter for gambling in the state. This overview delves into the history, current legal status, and practical details of gambling in Vermont, providing a clear resource for residents and visitors alike. The focus is on the newly legalized market and what it means for the legal sports betting enthusiast.
Vermont Gambling Laws History
Vermont’s historical stance on gambling has been one of prohibition with limited exceptions. The state constitution has long been interpreted as forbidding most forms of gambling. For decades, the only legal gambling options were the state lottery, established in 1977, and charitable gaming events like raffles and bingo. Any discussion of Vermont online betting was purely theoretical. For years, attempts to expand gambling, including proposals for commercial casinos or racetracks, were consistently met with legislative resistance. This resistance was rooted in concerns over problem gambling and a desire to maintain Vermont’s unique character. The national shift in perspective following the 2018 U.S. Supreme Court decision that overturned the federal ban on sports betting (PASPA) began to change the conversation, setting the stage for Vermont’s own reconsideration of its gambling regulations.
Current Gambling Laws in Vermont
The current legal landscape is defined by Act 63, which was signed into law by Governor Phil Scott in June 2023. This legislation authorized the Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery to launch a regulated online sports betting market. As of January 11, 2024, bettors in Vermont can legally wager on sports through state-licensed online platforms. It is crucial to note that this law only legalized online sports wagering; it did not authorize any retail sportsbooks or casinos. Therefore, all legal sports betting must be conducted through one of the three approved online operators. Other forms of gambling, such as commercial casinos, remain prohibited. The legal age for sports betting and the lottery in Vermont is 18.
Key Milestones in Vermont Gambling Laws
The path to legal sports betting in Vermont was a deliberate process. Several key milestones mark its evolution:
- 1977: The Vermont State Lottery is established, becoming the first legal form of gambling in the state.
- 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), allowing states to legalize sports betting.
- 2021-2022: Multiple sports betting bills are introduced in the Vermont legislature but fail to gain enough traction to pass.
- May 2023: The Vermont legislature passes Act 63, a bill to legalize and regulate online sports betting.
- June 2023: Governor Phil Scott signs Act 63 into law.
- January 11, 2024: Legal online sports betting officially launches in Vermont with three licensed operators.
Games Offered
Under the current Vermont Gambling Laws, the games and betting options available are specific. The state lottery offers various draw games and instant scratchers. Charitable organizations are permitted to host games like bingo and raffles. The most significant recent addition is online sports betting, which allows wagering on a wide array of professional and collegiate sports. However, betting on Vermont collegiate teams or any collegiate events taking place within the state is prohibited. Other common casino games like slots, blackjack, roulette, or poker remain illegal outside of limited private settings.
What Types of Gambling Are Legal?
The following table provides a clear breakdown of what is permitted and what is not under Vermont law.
| Gambling Type | Legal Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online Sports Betting | Legal | Regulated by the state; available through licensed apps. |
| State Lottery | Legal | Includes draw games and instant scratchers. |
| Charitable Gaming | Legal | Bingo, raffles, and other games operated by qualified non-profits. |
| Commercial Casinos | Illegal | No physical casinos exist in Vermont. |
| Social Gambling | Conditionally Legal | Private home games are allowed if no house rake or fee is taken. |
| Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) | Legal | Operated under a separate law prior to sports betting legalization. |
Quick Facts About Gambling in Vermont
For a quick reference, here are the essential facts to know about the state’s gambling environment.
- Legal Age: 18 for lottery and sports betting.
- Retail Casinos: None.
- Retail Sportsbooks: None.
- Online Casinos: Not legal.
- Online Sportsbooks: Legal, with three state-approved operators.
- State Lottery: Active since 1977.
- Tribal Gaming: Vermont has no federally recognized tribes, so there are no tribal casinos.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Vermont
With the launch of legal sportsbooks, Vermonters have embraced wagering on a wide range of sports. Given New England’s passionate sports culture, certain leagues and teams dominate the action. The NFL, particularly the New England Patriots, is a perennial favorite. The NBA and NHL also see significant volume, with the Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins drawing heavy interest from Vermont bettors. College basketball, especially during the March Madness tournament, is another major event for the Vermont sports betting market. Baseball, soccer, golf, and UFC are also widely available for wagering on the platforms.
Top 5 Local Casinos in Vermont
It is important to state unequivocally that there are no local casinos in Vermont. State law prohibits commercial casinos. For residents seeking a casino experience, travel to a neighboring state is required. Popular destinations include:
- Springfield Casino (Massachusetts)
- Mohegan Sun (Connecticut)
- Foxwoods Resort Casino (Connecticut)
- Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady (New York)
- MGM Springfield (Massachusetts)
Top 5 Sportsbooks in Vermont
Vermont opted for a competitive model, awarding contracts to three national leaders in the online sportsbook industry. These are the only legal platforms for placing a bet in the state.
- DraftKings – A Boston-based pioneer in the daily fantasy and sports betting industry, known for its user-friendly app and extensive market offerings.
- FanDuel – Another industry giant, renowned for its sleek interface, competitive odds, and popular promotional offers.
- Fanatics Betting and Gaming – A newer entrant to the market that leverages its massive brand recognition in sports merchandise to attract users.
Conclusion
The framework of Vermont Gambling Laws has undergone a fundamental transformation with the legalization of online sports betting. The state has moved from a position of near-total prohibition to embracing a modern, regulated online market for sports wagering. This shift provides a safe and legal avenue for bettors while generating tax revenue for the state. However, the expansion is carefully limited; traditional casino gaming remains off the table. For now, the legal options are clearly defined: the state lottery, charitable games, and online sportsbooks through DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics. Anyone looking to engage in legal sports betting in Vermont must do so through these official channels to ensure they are operating within the law.
Sources
Vermont General Assembly. (2023). Act 63: An act relating to regulating sports wagering. https://legislature.vermont.gov/Documents/2024/Docs/ACTS/ACT063.pdf
Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery. (2024). Sports wagering. https://liquorandlottery.vermont.gov/sports-wagering
American Gaming Association. (2024). Vermont sports betting. https://www.americangaming.org/state/vermont/
