As the 2026 Regular Session commences, Mississippi lawmakers have reintroduced legislation focusing on mobile and online sports wagering, alongside policies targeting online sweepstakes gaming. This renewed effort includes several bills that aim to regulate online sports betting and clarify the legal status of various gaming formats.
Legislative Proposals for Mobile Sports Wagering
In the House, HB 1581 seeks to establish the Mississippi Mobile Sports Wagering Act. This bill would legalize “online race book” and “online sports pool” betting, placing oversight under the Mississippi Gaming Commission. It outlines licensure requirements for platforms involved in these activities and introduces geofencing and age-verification measures. Notably, participation would be restricted to individuals aged 21 and older.
Another significant proposal, HB 297, aims to amend the existing Gaming Control Act. This bill would redefine “sports pool,” introduce the term “digital platform,” and permit the operation of sports pools and race books via approved digital platforms. Additionally, HB 297 seeks to amend the Fantasy Contest Act, removing restrictions on contests based on collegiate athletic performances.
On the Senate side, SB 2249 mirrors the objectives of HB 1581, aiming to legalize online sports pools and race books. It also incorporates similar requirements for geofencing and age verification, ensuring compliance with age restrictions. Proceeds from the operations would contribute to the Mississippi HOPE Scholarship Program Fund.
Addressing Online Sweepstakes Gaming
The issue of online sweepstakes gaming is addressed in SB 2104, which proposes amendments to Mississippi’s criminal statutes. This legislation explicitly includes online, interactive, or computerized games within existing gambling prohibitions. It classifies online platforms offering sweepstakes casino-style games as illegal gambling devices.
SB 2104 escalates certain violations to felony status, introducing potential fines and imprisonment for offenders. The bill also permits the forfeiture of assets connected to these violations and allows for flexible venue arrangements for prosecution, enhancing the state’s ability to enforce these laws.
As of now, all these proposals remain in the introductory phase, having been filed and referred to relevant committees. The scheduling of committee discussions and potential amendments will play a crucial role in determining whether any of these measures progress during the 2026 legislative session.
