According to Arizona.Bet, 2025 is shaping up as a pivotal year for online sports betting. Since Arizona led the way in 2021, six other states have joined the growing list of regions authorizing digital wagering. The reasons range from economic recovery to curbing offshore activity, but all point toward one thing: betting is now mainstream in the U.S.
Following the Supreme Court’s 2018 repeal of PASPA, momentum has accelerated. States once hesitant are now embracing regulation, consumer protection, and new tax streams. Here are the six states that recently joined Arizona—and why they did.
1. North Carolina – Expanding from Retail to Digital
North Carolina first launched in-person betting at tribal casinos, but in 2024 it approved statewide mobile wagering. The decision stemmed from neighboring competition: Virginia and Tennessee were already thriving digitally.
The Tar Heel State’s framework mirrors Arizona’s, allowing pro teams to partner with sportsbook operators and enforcing geolocation safeguards. Early reports show revenue and user activity exceeding projections within weeks of launch.
2. Vermont – Completing the New England Map
Vermont became the final New England state to legalize online betting in late 2024. Officials cited the need to bring residents away from offshore platforms into a secure, taxed ecosystem.
The state operates a limited number of licenses, focusing on responsible gaming tools and strict oversight—policies inspired by Arizona’s balance between accessibility and accountability. Though small, Vermont expects more than $8 million in annual tax revenue by 2026, proving even modest markets can profit from smart regulation.
3. Missouri – Breaking Years of Deadlock
After years of stalled negotiations, Missouri lawmakers reached bipartisan agreement in 2025 to legalize sports betting. Neighboring success stories in Kansas and Illinois provided the final push.
The new law blends casino partnerships with national sportsbook brands and dedicates tax proceeds to education and veterans’ programs. Modeled on Arizona’s competitive 10-license structure, Missouri’s system encourages fair play and fiscal transparency.
4. Minnesota – Tribal Partnership Opens the Door
Minnesota long resisted online betting because of tribal sovereignty concerns. That changed in mid-2025, when state officials and the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association reached a historic compromise.
The resulting model lets tribes operate mobile platforms under state supervision, sharing revenue through structured agreements. This hybrid framework—similar to Arizona’s—creates sustainable economic growth while preserving tribal authority. Analysts expect more than $300 million in annual handle once the market stabilizes.
5. Georgia – Betting as an Economic Catalyst
After years of debate, Georgia finally legalized online betting in 2025. Economic studies revealed millions in lost revenue from unregulated wagering. Lawmakers responded with a moderate 15% tax rate and strong consumer safeguards.
The initiative emphasizes job creation, local reinvestment, and responsible-gaming funding. Much like Arizona, Georgia tied its rollout to community benefits and problem-gambling awareness campaigns—ensuring the industry grows responsibly.
6. California – A Historic Compromise Finally Reached
The biggest development of 2025 came from California, where voters and lawmakers at last approved regulated online betting. After multiple failed initiatives, a compromise between tribal and commercial interests paved the way.
California’s system echoes Arizona’s dual-operator model, allowing both tribal and private platforms under one regulatory umbrella. Early projections suggest the market could surpass $20 billion in annual wagers, generating record-setting state revenue.
Common Threads Across the Six States
Though diverse in geography and politics, these new betting states share striking similarities:
- Data-driven legislationbacked by fiscal impact studies.
- Robust licensing and auditingmodeled after Arizona’s transparent framework.
- Responsible gaming fundingand addiction-prevention programs.
- Partnership opportunitiesfor professional teams and local businesses.
Together they represent a shift from moral hesitation to pragmatic regulation. Each learned from pioneers like Arizona, which proved online betting could coexist with strict compliance and player protection.
Why the Legalization Wave Matters
America’s betting boom shows no sign of slowing. With more than two-thirds of states now offering some form of regulated wagering, the market is projected to top $150 billion in total annual handle by 2026.
Post-pandemic economic recovery, digital convenience, and shifting public opinion all play major roles. States are discovering that regulation—rather than prohibition—better serves both players and public coffers. The move also protects consumers from predatory offshore sites that offer no oversight or recourse.
Conclusion
The legalization of online betting in six new states underscores a profound cultural and economic shift. What was once considered a fringe activity has become a regulated mainstream industry. Arizona led that transformation by demonstrating that innovation and integrity can go hand in hand.
As North Carolina, Vermont, Missouri, Minnesota, Georgia, and California join the fold, America’s betting future looks more unified—and more responsible—than ever. For continuing coverage of legislation, market performance, and best-practice insights, visit Arizona.Bet, where responsible gaming meets trusted reporting.
By Gregory O'NeillGreg is a modern-day explorer with an insatiable love for travel. His passion for adventure has led him to far-flung corners of the world, where he immerses himself in diverse cultures and experiences. Greg's zest for life is epitomized by a continuous pursuit of new horizons and captivating journeys.
