Rhode Island Senate Proposes Bill to End Sports Betting Monopoly Amid Revenue Decline
Providence, RI – The Rhode Island state Senate is taking action to challenge the House’s efforts aimed at breaking the state’s sports gambling monopoly. In response to House bill HB 6048, the Senate introduced its own legislation, Bill SB 748, which seeks to overhaul the current sports betting landscape dominated by Sportsbook RI, the only sportsbook operating since legalization in 2018.
Sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Frank Ciccone, SB 748 proposes a significant change: it would prevent the Rhode Island Lottery from renewing contracts with current sports-wagering vendors beyond July 1, 2026. Instead, the Lottery would be required to solicit bids for at least five new vendors, paving the way for increased competition.
The initiative comes as Rhode Island’s sports betting industry confronts alarming declines. Tax revenues from sports betting have plummeted by 19% since 2023, with a report indicating a 6% year-over-year decrease in tax revenue, totaling just $5.25 million in the first quarter of 2025. This downturn has raised concerns among lawmakers, who feel the existing monopoly is stymying growth.
Ciccone expressed the urgency for reform, emphasizing the need for better options for bettors. Criticism of Sportsbook RI’s app has been widespread, with users labeling it outdated and frustrating. Notably, even past and current Senate leadership has voiced their disdain for the service.
The Senate Committee on Labor and Gaming voted unanimously in favor of SB 748, which is poised for a full Senate vote this Wednesday. As neighboring states like Delaware experience growth, Rhode Island’s stagnant sports betting sector compels legislators to pursue transformative change.
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