Sports betting has been a controversial topic in the United States over the years; however, the legality of the practice varies from state to state. Currently illegal in Florida, arguments have risen regarding whether or not it should remain this way.
According to Legal Sports Report, nearly two-thirds of U.S. states have approved some form of legal sports wagering, whether via mobile apps or in-person sportsbooks.
States earned the right to choose to legalize sports betting after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on single-game wagering in 2018. Florida is not among states that have legalized sports betting, despite a period of legalized in-person betting in 2021 that was struck down after a deal between Florida and the Seminole Tribe fell apart. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Seminole Tribe remain tied up in federal court. The U.S. Federal Judge determined the Florida gaming compact violates IGRA (Indian Gaming Regulatory Act); it was thrown out of the state sports betting agreement with the Seminole Tribe.
While legalizing sports betting could generate significant revenue for the state, it more importantly leads to an increase in problem gambling. Sports betting can be seen as harmless entertainment, however, it can quickly turn into a destructive hobby if self control is lost in the process.
According to the Chief of the Science Policy Branch at the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Emily Einstein, problem betting connects to the psychological disorder where something that seems unharmful, instantly becomes unmanageable and impacts someone’s life detrimentally.
When participating in betting activities, losses can add up quickly. Sooner or later, that person may start seeking for other ways to obtain more money in their possession to continue their gambling addiction, such as borrowing and stealing. An anonymous student however, disagrees with the idea of banning sports betting from Florida.
“It doesn’t make sense that I can fly to New York and bet on sports, but not when I’m at home,” he said. “Floridians will just bet illegally, taking away an opportunity for the state government to earn profits.”
According to Front Office Sports, state governments generated over $1 billion through gambling in 2022. Not only has gambling opened up new job opportunities, it has brought millions of dollars to help fund programs throughout different states. However, don’t let these benefits deceive you.
While gambling may benefit some people, there must be a high level of individual responsibility in order for society to survive its very powerful negative effects.