can you bet in louisiana
Can You Bet in Louisiana?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Louisiana. Retail sportsbooks opened in October 2021٫ and mobile sports betting apps launched in January 2022. You must be 21 years or older to place a wager.
Legal Status of Sports Betting
Sports betting in Louisiana officially became legal in June 2021 when Governor John Bel Edwards signed legislation authorizing online and retail sports wagering. This followed a successful 2020 ballot measure where voters in 55 of the state’s 64 parishes approved legal sports betting within their jurisdictions.
While the law permitted sports betting, the actual launch of sportsbooks was contingent upon the development of regulations and the establishment of licensing procedures by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board. Retail sportsbooks began operations in October 2021, and online sports betting platforms followed in January 2022.
Types of Sports Bets Allowed
Louisiana offers a wide range of sports bets, catering to both seasoned bettors and newcomers. The legal sports betting market encompasses all the standard betting options found in mature markets.
These options include⁚
- Moneyline bets⁚ Wagering on the outright winner of a game or event.
- Point spread bets⁚ Betting on a team to win or lose by a specific margin of points.
- Over/under bets⁚ Predicting whether the total combined score will be over or under a predetermined value.
- Parlays⁚ Combining multiple bets into a single wager for higher potential payouts.
- Futures⁚ Placing bets on events or outcomes that will be determined in the future, like championship winners.
- Prop bets⁚ Wagering on specific occurrences within a game, such as player statistics or unique events.
- Live betting⁚ Placing bets on games that are in progress, with odds fluctuating in real-time.
However, Louisiana prohibits wagers on individual college athletes’ performances, focusing instead on team-based betting for collegiate events.
Where to Bet on Sports in Louisiana
Louisiana offers multiple avenues for placing sports bets, both in-person and online. You can enjoy the thrill of sports wagering through various licensed establishments⁚
- Louisiana boasts numerous retail sportsbooks housed within casinos and racetracks.
- These dedicated venues offer a traditional sportsbook experience with betting windows, comfortable seating, and multiple screens for viewing events.
- Popular retail sportsbooks include those located at Harrah’s New Orleans, Boomtown New Orleans, L’Auberge Casino Resort, and Golden Nugget Lake Charles.
Online Sports Betting Platforms⁚
- For ultimate convenience, Louisiana permits online sports betting through licensed mobile applications.
- Several well-known operators, such as DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars Sportsbook, BetMGM, and BetRivers, offer their services in the state.
- Downloading their apps allows you to place bets from anywhere within the state, 24/7.
Note that parishes where sports betting wasn’t approved on the 2020 ballot do not offer these services.
Online Sports Betting Options
Louisiana offers a diverse and competitive online sports betting market, with a variety of licensed operators providing a wide array of options for sports enthusiasts.
Popular Sportsbooks⁚ Among the most popular online sportsbooks available in Louisiana are⁚
- DraftKings Sportsbook⁚ Known for its user-friendly interface, comprehensive sports coverage, and competitive odds.
- FanDuel Sportsbook⁚ A major player in the industry, offering a seamless betting experience, live streaming options, and innovative promotions.
- Caesars Sportsbook⁚ Backed by the renowned casino brand, it provides a vast selection of betting markets and a rewarding loyalty program.
- BetMGM Sportsbook⁚ Another reputable operator with a strong presence in multiple states, featuring a robust mobile app and a wide range of betting options.
Key Features⁚ Louisiana’s online sportsbooks typically offer these features⁚
- Mobile Apps⁚ Convenient apps for iOS and Android devices, allowing for betting on the go.
- Live Betting⁚ Place wagers on games as they unfold, adding an extra layer of excitement.
- Promotions and Bonuses⁚ Attract new users and reward existing customers with various incentives, such as free bets and deposit matches.
Responsible Gambling Resources in Louisiana
Louisiana is committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and providing support to individuals who may be experiencing gambling-related problems. If you or someone you know needs help, various resources are available⁚
Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling (LACG)⁚ A non-profit organization dedicated to addressing problem gambling through advocacy, prevention, treatment, and research. They offer a 24/7 helpline, counseling services, and support groups.
Office of Behavioral Health⁚ The Louisiana Department of Health’s Office of Behavioral Health provides resources and information on problem gambling. Their website offers links to treatment centers, self-assessment tools, and other helpful materials.
- National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)⁚ A national organization providing information, support, and referrals for problem gamblers and their families.
- Gamblers Anonymous⁚ A fellowship of individuals who share their experiences and support one another in recovering from gambling addiction.
Remember⁚ Sports betting should be enjoyed responsibly. Set limits, take breaks, and seek help if you need it.