- Rhode Island expects to introduce at least one new mobile sportsbook by the end of 2026.
- State representative Matthew Dawson is advocating for a bill that would open the door for multiple new online sportsbook operators in Rhode Island.
- Rhode Island only has one state-regulated online sportsbook, causing a loss in revenue from players going across state lines to bet.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – New legislation in Rhode Island could see the state’s lone sportsbook, Sportsbook RI, joined by multiple other operators by the end of 2026. Paul Grimaldi from the Department of Revenue claims that the state will add another legal sports betting operator after many requests to the Rhode Island Lottery.
A study from Spectrum Gaming Group anticipates roughly an extra $1 million in revenue from adding an extra mobile sports betting operator. “Working within the current constitutional and statutory framework, we are following Spectrum’s guidance in considering the addition of one incremental provider,” Grimaldi said in regards to potential Rhode Island sports betting expansion.
RI Lawmaker Wants More Online Sportsbook Operators
With just one local operator and a nation-high 51% sports betting tax rate, Representative Matthew Dawson believes Rhode Island is missing out on tax revenue that would come with more operators. He supports a bill that would bring more Rhode Island sports betting operators to the state, although the exact number is still being discussed.
With higher taxes and less options, many Rhode Island residents elect to go across state lines for lower taxes and more operators in Massachusetts. The increased number of online sports betting sites creates greater competition, leading to more incentivizing welcome bonuses and sportsbook promotions that Sportsbook RI doesn’t offer.
If the Rhode Island Lottery expands their online sports betting offerings, it will keep more bettors in-state and increase tax revenue. That’s exactly what Matthew Dawson’s legislation aims to accomplish.
