With Kansas sports betting up and running, Missouri wants to catch up but is missing some key support.
Missouri Rep. Dan Houx is making a push to have a sports betting bill, HB 4, included during a special legislative session this month. Gov. Mike Parson called the session to discuss tax cut proposals and a spokesperson released a statement that suggested MO sports betting will not be included.
The Emerging Issues Committee largely rehashed the spring’s failed legalization push while hearing Houx’s bill Monday and did not take action. If the issue does not move in the special session, Houx said he will introduce a Missouri sports betting bill in January.
“It’s been the number one topic constituents ask about this summer,” Houx told Monday. “We’re just trying to keep it in the forefront of people’s minds. Do I think the governor will expand the session? I don’t know if he will, but it doesn’t sound like it. It’s not something I’ll be aggressive to make happen if not.”