SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Representative Cedrick Frazier has introduced a bill to legalize sports betting, aiming to create a comprehensive framework that balances economic opportunity with the strongest safeguards against problem gambling. The legislation is the result of years of collaboration with key stakeholders, including tribal nations, gaming industry experts, problem gambling advocates, and state regulators.
The bill’s sponsors emphasize that Minnesota has the opportunity to set a national standard for responsible sports betting.
“We recognize that sports betting is already happening, often in unregulated markets, and our goal is to bring it into a well-structured legal framework that prioritizes consumer protections and responsible gaming,” said Rep. Cedrick Frazier (DFL-New Hope), lead author on the bill. “As the bill moves through the legislative process, lawmakers are committed to continued dialogue with stakeholders to refine and strengthen its provisions. With bipartisan support and a strong focus on consumer protection, advocates hope this legislation will position Minnesota as a leader in responsible sports betting regulation.”
A key focus of the legislation is ensuring that Minnesota implements the most robust safeguards in the country to prevent gambling addiction. The proposal includes mandatory self-exclusion programs, funding for problem gambling treatment, strict advertising regulations to limit exposure to minors, and data-driven monitoring systems to identify risky betting behavior. The bill also calls for a significant portion of the tax revenue generated from sports betting to be dedicated to mental health and gambling addiction resources.
“We have seen the consequences of inadequate regulations in other states, and we are determined to do this right,” said Rep. Frazier. “Our aim is to create a model that other states can look to when implementing their own sports betting laws.”
The legislation also ensures that Minnesota’s Tribal nations, which have long played a central role in the state’s gaming industry, are key partners in the regulatory framework.
“Respecting Tribal sovereignty and ensuring a fair, regulated, and competitive market emerges in Minnesota is essential,” said Rep. Liish Kozlowski (DFL-Duluth). “For an entire generation now, Minnesota’s sovereign Tribal governments have proven their ability to successfully and safely conduct gaming in an environment that is heavily regulated by Tribal authorities, Minnesota state agencies, and the federal government. Tribal Nations have long recognized that gaming is an activity which goes far beyond the debates over the details of the gaming industry itself: it involves the sovereignty to control our own destinies. By establishing collaborative and mutually beneficial compacts that respects Tribal sovereignty, ensures fair market competition, and promotes responsible gaming – Minnesota can create a legal framework for the legalization of Tribally exclusive sports betting that is a net positive for all Minnesotans.”
As the House returns to a 67-67 tie, Reps. Frazier and Kozlowski look forward to moving this bill through the committee process.
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