Is Sports Betting Legal in Georgia?
No, sports betting is currently illegal in Georgia. The state has some of the strictest gambling laws in the U.S., prohibiting sports betting, casinos, and online gambling. The only exceptions are the state lottery and certain charitable games like bingo and raffles.
Despite this, many Georgia residents place bets through offshore sportsbooks or travel to nearby states where betting is legal. Lawmakers have debated legalizing sports betting, but progress has been slow.
Recent Legislative Efforts & Outcomes
- 2021: The Georgia Senate passed a sports betting bill (SB 142), but it failed in the House.
- 2022: A new bill was introduced but did not pass due to tax and revenue allocation disagreements.
- 2023: Multiple bills were introduced, but none advanced beyond committee discussions.
- 2024: A House committee proposed a constitutional amendment to put sports betting on the 2026 ballot, but it stalled.
Potential for Legalization
For sports betting to become legal in Georgia, a constitutional amendment is required, meaning voters must approve it. The earliest possible launch of regulated sports betting would be 2027 if approved in 2026.
Where You Can Bet in Georgia
There are no places where you can legally bet whilst in Georgia.
No Legal Sportsbooks in Georgia
Georgia’s strict gambling laws mean there are currently no legal sportsbooks operating within the state. This includes both online and retail betting locations. While several neighboring states have embraced legalized sports wagering, Georgia remains one of the few large U.S. states without any form of regulated sports betting.
Below, we’ll break down the current betting options available for Georgians—both in-state and across the border.
Nearest Legal Sports Betting Options to Georgia
- Tennessee: Mobile sports betting is legal state-wide.
- North Carolina: Retail sportsbooks are available, and mobile betting launched in early 2024.
- Florida: Hard Rock Sportsbook operates online and retail betting.
- Mississippi: Retail betting is available at casinos.
Local Casinos in Georgia
Georgia does not have any land-based casinos. The closest option is the Emerald Princess Casino Cruise in Brunswick, which operates in international waters.
Online Poker in Georgia
Poker is illegal in Georgia, except for private home games with no house rake. There are no licensed poker rooms or casino card tables in the state.
Economic Impact of Gambling in Georgia
Estimates suggest legal sports betting could generate over $100 million annually in tax revenue, funding education and public services.