Sports betting could finally come to Georgia without a constitutional amendment or voter approval. That's the plan outlined in HB910, which was reintroduced by Rep. Matt Hatchett (R) this week.
The bill, originally filed in April 2025, seeks to legalize online sports betting by amending the state's lottery act, placing regulation under the Georgia Lottery Corporation. If passed, the Peach State could join the growing list of states with legal online sportsbooks, potentially launching as early as 2027.
This approach bypasses the need for a referendum, which has stalled previous efforts due to debates over whether sports betting requires changing the state constitution.
Key components of HB910 include:
- Regulator: Georgia Lottery Corporation
- Number of licenses: Up to 18 online sportsbooks
- Tax rate: 25% on adjusted gross revenue
- Licensing fees: $100,000 application fee, $1 million annual renewal
- Age requirement: 21+
- Revenue allocation: Proceeds to fund education through the HOPE Scholarship and pre-K programs
Here's the full lineup of entities eligible for sportsbook partners:
- One to each of Georgia's professional sports teams (Atlanta Hawks, Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Braves, Atlanta United FC, and Atlanta Dream)
- One for Augusta National Golf Course
- One for the PGA Tour
- One for Atlanta Motor Speedway
- One for the Georgia Lottery Corporation
- Two for entities approved by the National Steeplechase Association
The remaining seven license would be awarded by the Georgia Lottery following a public procurement process.
Which Sportsbooks Could Launch in Georgia?
With up to 18 licenses available, expect a competitive field. Top brands like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and theScore Bet would likely vie for spots, potentially partnering with local teams or venues.
Caesars and Fanatics could also make a play, given their national presence. New entrants might emerge, but the big players should dominate. Bettors could look forward to Georgia sports betting promos, including deposit matches, bonus bets, and odds boosts by year-end if all goes well.
Georgia Sports Betting Push Faces Familiar Hurdles
Despite the momentum, HB910 isn't a sure bet. Past attempts have faltered amid opposition from religious groups, concerns over gambling addiction, and debates on revenue sharing.
Some lawmakers insist a constitutional amendment is needed, which would require a voter referendum—potentially delaying launch until after the 2026 election. Others worry about the impact on the Georgia Lottery's existing games.
The bill's fate will hinge on support in both the House and Senate during the 2026 session. If it advances, Gov. Brian Kemp's stance could be pivotal, though he has previously expressed openness to regulated gambling if it benefits education.
Timeline for Georgia Online Sports Betting Launch
If HB910 passes this session, rulemaking could take 6-12 months, putting a potential launch in late 2026 or early 2027. That's optimistic, given Georgia's history of close calls. Without major roadblocks, bettors might be wagering on the Falcons or Braves by football season 2027. For now, offshore sites remain the only option, but legal sportsbooks could change the game for the state's avid sports fans.
