Missouri Sports Betting: Outlook for April 2024

Is sports betting in Missouri legal?

Sports betting is still illegal in Missouri despite several attempts to change that. In 2023, multiple bills were introduced with the goal of legalizing retail and online sports betting. HB 556 had strong support and even passed the House with a 118-35 vote. However, once it reached the Senate, things got complicated.

Senator Denny Hoskins has been quite the roadblock. He's been insistent on having video lottery terminals included in the legislation, and it's caused quite a stir among the legislators. Ultimately, the clock ran out on a pretty heated last day of the legislative session, and unfortunately, HB 556 didn't make the cut. 

Frustrated with the slow pace of legislative progress, the Missouri Pro Sports Coalition — made up of big-time sports teams in the state — decided to take matters into their own hands. In September 2023, they filed four proposals to reform the state constitution and provide a legal basis for sportsbooks in Missouri.

They must first obtain approval from the Secretary of State. Following that, they must collect signatures from at least 8% of registered voters in six of Missouri's eight districts, adding up to 172,000 signatures.

If all goes according to plan, Missouri voters will have the chance to weigh in on these proposals in November 2024. This is the coalition's latest effort to bring sports betting into the state, something they've been pushing for quite a while now. 

Notable Missouri sports betting developments

2024

• January 9: House Bill 2331 is introduced by Rep. Dan Houx. The bill would allow retail casinos, as well as the state's professional sports teams, to apply for up to three skins (mobile sports betting licenses).

• February 1: HB 2331 advances past the House by a 5-2 vote and will advance to the Senate.

2023

• January 4: House Bill 581, championing legal sports betting, makes its debut.  

• January 5: The momentum builds as HB556 and SB30, both pro-sports betting bills, are introduced by Rep. Dan Houx and Sen. Tony Leutkemeyer.

• February 22: A pivotal discussion unfolds in the Senate's appropriations committee, where two mobile sports betting bills and the contentious issue of video lottery terminals (VLTs) are on the table.

• February 23: Progress is seen with Senate Bill 30 and House Bills 556 and 581, inching Missouri closer to legalized retail and online sports betting.

• April 4: Senator Denny Hoskins draws a line in the sand, insisting any sports betting bill must include VLTs.

• May 9: The House makes a move, passing an amendment to SB 92 that would see sports betting tax rates rise to 15%, though a Senate battle looms.

• May 12: With the legislative session coming to a close, sports betting bills are left on the table, pushing the potential legalization back to future sessions.

• May 29: Kansas City Royals support legal sports betting and ponder a ballot measure for voters.

• June 7: Rep. Denny Hoskins eyes a new government position, possibly easing the path for sports betting legalization.

• July 25: Cardinals president voices frustration over slow sports betting legislation process.

• Sept. 8: Chiefs join forces with Game Sense and BetMGM to encourage responsible gambling.

• Sept. 15: Pro Sports Coalition seeks constitutional amendment for Missouri sportsbooks.

Missouri sports betting: legal quick facts

Expected Missouri sportsbooks

When Missouri opens its doors to online sports betting, we expect a lively market with a mix of pro teams and land-based casinos all vying for a piece of the action. Given the proposals in the bills and the petitions filed with the Secretary of State, it’s safe to predict a diverse and comprehensive market with plenty of licenses up for grabs. This opens up a golden opportunity for all the big players in the sportsbook world.

Drawing on patterns we've seen in other states and taking stock of the current heavy hitters, we'll likely see many top-tier sportsbooks jumping in to claim their stake in Missouri's potentially booming sports betting landscape.

DraftKings 👑

DraftKings isn't new to Missouri, having offered DFS there since 2016. It makes sense that they're front-runners for a license if Missouri embraces sports betting. Their welcome bonuses are ever-changing, and right now, the “bet $5, get $150” is a hot topic.

DK has one of the most decked-out betting programs. Their versatility is most evident in the depth of their prop bets. Every NFL matchup, like any game in the other three major sports, boasts an array of prop bet variations. Just the Rush/Receiving props category spans 10 subsections, covering options from the longest rush to specific receiving yard lines for different players. Plus, they've got some slick homemade same-game parlays if you're aiming for those hefty odds.

Returning bettors at DraftKings have a range of promos to pick from. Lately, they've rolled out super odds boosts and survivor pools, where a mere $1 entry can lead to big wins.

For those who prefer to bet on the move, DraftKings mobile apps are as good as it gets, a sentiment echoed by the high ratings and positive feedback in app stores.

• App Store Ratings: 4.8 iOS, 4.6 Android

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: 24–48 hours (Wire Transfer, Play+)

Possible Missouri Sportsbook: DraftKings Sportsbook Review

FanDuel 🔵

FanDuel has had a foothold in Missouri since 2016 through its DFS platform. They've joined forces with Boyd Gaming and have ties with two of Missouri's local casinos. Considering they're throwing down in just about every state with legal sports betting, you'd expect them to be front and center in Missouri if it rolled out sports betting.

The betting community can't stop talking about their exceptional user experience, and we get the hype. Both the desktop platform and app are sleek, intuitive, and consistent, with barely a glitch in sight. 

FanDuel seems to march to a similar beat as their top rival, DK. They're also serving up the “bet $5, win $150” sign-up deal for new users. Just like DK, they've got a loaded lineup of prop bets. Yet, FanDuel creates some separation with their unique futures, especially those “record breakers.” You could bet on feats like Tyreek Hill potentially setting a season record for receiving yards.

FanDuel's been rolling out some fresh features lately. One standout is the “Same Game Plus,” letting bettors blend multiple picks from one game with choices from another. Then there's the “Parlay Hub,” a neat tool where FanDuel churns out random SGPs, tossing in combinations most wouldn't think to create.

• App Store Ratings: 4.7 iOS and 4.7 Android

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: 0–24 (Play+, PayPal)

Possible Missouri Sportsbook: FanDuel Sportsbook Review

BetMGM 🦁

BetMGM is everywhere in the sports betting scene, so it's almost a deadbolt lock they'll touch down in Missouri. When they set up shop, expect offerings tailored around local teams. That's how BetMGM rolls — whipping up special bets and promos for teams like the Chiefs and Cardinals, something you won’t find elsewhere.

Currently, they're offering newbies a $1,500 refund in bonus bets if that first wager doesn't pan out. And it doesn't stop there. They keep the ball rolling with free contests, challenges, and referral bonuses. 

You’ll find odds on 20+ sports at BetMGM. For those keen on more niche action, they're a top pick. Think sports like ski jumping, alpine skiing, and Gaelic games — all in BetMGM's wheelhouse.

BetMGM stands out as one of the most forward-thinking sportsbooks in the game. Features like Edit My Bet showcase their innovative spirit, allowing bettors to tweak live wagers on the fly.

• App Store Ratings: 4.8 iOS, 3.7 Android

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: 3–5 days (bank transfer, PayPal)

Possible Missouri Sportsbook: BetMGM Sportsbook Review

Caesars 🏛

Caesars operates three establishments in Missouri, putting them in a prime spot for the state's sports betting market. Should they venture in, they'll leverage the deep expertise and unmatched brand recognition synonymous with the Caesars name.

Caesars doesn't just ride on their historic rep; they’ve integrated their acclaimed Caesars Rewards program online, and it's a hit with bettors.

New users at Caesars can claim a refund on their first bet up to $1,000. That's just the warm-up. The promo lineup for returning bettors is impressive, featuring profit and bet-specific boosts. Their crown jewel is the daily odds boosts. They're leading the pack among sportsbooks nationwide, serving up over 40 of these boosts every single day.

They’ve got a few neat tools that parlay bettors might want to check out. The Quick Picks feature is a parlay generator akin to that of FanDuel and DraftKings. 

• App Store Ratings: 4.6 iOS, 4.2 Android

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: 12–24 h (PayPal)

Possible Missouri Sportsbook: Caesars Sportsbook Review

BetRivers  ⚡

BetRivers, the online gaming app from Rush Street Interactive, is expected to make a play for the Missouri market when the time comes. They've built a solid reputation as one of the top sportsbooks in the U.S., with their standout promotions being a big part of their charm.

Once you jump into BetRivers, there's a second chance bonus bet of up to $100 waiting for you if your first wager doesn’t hit. But what sets them apart is their "bet & get" deals — they're the only sportsbook that regularly offers these deals for returning bettors, covering everything from major sports to soccer. Plus, don't miss out on their insurance promotions, where you can get cashback if just one leg of your parlay falls through.

Make sure to swing by Props Central, where they drop cool prop bets, such as a player scoring at least 2 TDs or predicting interceptions thrown. And don’t miss their House Specials section, packed with seasonal props like “any NBA team to win 65 games in the regular season.”

• App Store Ratings: 2.9 Android, 4.4 iOS 

• Sign Up Bonus: TBD

• Payout Speed: Instant (Play+)

Possible BetRivers Sportsbook:  BetRivers Sportsbook Review

Having witnessed a consistent trend in over 30 U.S. states, we can make a well-informed prediction on which sportsbooks are likely to make a move in Missouri. Expect a variety of Missouri betting sites and apps to pop up, catering to everyone looking to get in on the action. Below is a table of potential sportsbooks in Missouri that might arrive and make a splash in the Show-Me State.

Missouri sports betting neighbors

Missouri's finding itself increasingly isolated as neighboring states embrace sports betting. With five of its eight neighbors having legalized the practice, the pressure's on. Nebraska and Kentucky have laws in place and are just finalizing the details. Oklahoma's the only one holding out with Missouri. 

Adding salt to the wound, Kansas, Missouri's border war rival, recently launched six online sportsbooks on September 1, 2022. That means for bettors in two state centers, Kansas City and St. Louis, legal sports betting is just a short drive away. This easy access to sportsbooks in neighboring states might just be the nudge Missouri needs to get into the game.

Missouri sports betting step-by-step start guide

In line with most states that have embraced online betting, Missouri will likely set the legal gambling age at 21 and enforce geofencing to keep all betting action within state borders — standard practice across the U.S.

This means you'll need to be 21 or older and physically located in Missouri to play at MO sportsbooks.

Assuming you meet these prerequisites, getting started is easy. Even those occasional extra verification steps are a walk in the park.

Here's a sneak peek at what the registration process will likely entail in Missouri:

Select a Sportsbook Licensed in Missouri 

When sports betting hits Missouri, we've got your back. We'll sift through the options and break down the deets on all the sportsbooks set to make a splash in the state. Don't worry; we've got a sharp eye for the legal stuff — every pick we serve up is fully licensed in Missouri. So, you can bet with confidence, knowing you won't get tangled up with some sketchy website. We'll help you find your perfect betting spot.

Register Online 

Once you've picked a sportsbook, you'll likely select Missouri from a dropdown menu of the states they operate in. We're assuming Missouri won't follow Nevada's footsteps in requiring in-person signups, so you should be able to complete registration from home. Just fill in the form with your details, and once the system verifies your info, you'll be all set with full membership.

Deposit and Claim a Bonus 

You will want to add some funds to your account to kick things off. It's vital to deposit enough to snag that welcome bonus, so pay attention to the minimum requirement. If they ask you for a promo code, don't sweat it; you'll find it in our review. As for payment options, you've got plenty to choose from, including debit cards, ACH, PayPal, Skrill, and online banking, with most sportsbooks setting the minimum deposit at about $10.

Select and Finalize Your Bet

With a funded account, navigate to the left-hand-side menu to access the betting options. Pick a game, choose your bet, enter your stake in the betting slip on the right, and hit Submit.

Win and Withdraw Your Payout

Your winnings will be withdrawable online and possibly even in person at one of the sportsbook's brick-and-mortar locations. When you're cashing out online, expect to wait anywhere from 1 to 10 days, depending on your withdrawal method. Play+ is typically the fastest option.

Missouri sports leagues and teams to bet on

Missouri sports fans can choose from a stacked lineup of in-state or nearby teams: the Kansas City Chiefs, St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Blues, Sporting Kansas City, and the St. Louis City SC. The Pro Sports Coalition, which includes all these teams, is so committed to bringing sports betting to Missouri that they've filed four proposals with the State Secretary, really putting their weight behind the cause.

They’ve been working closely with the Sports Betting Alliance, a powerhouse group made up of BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics Sportsbook, to move forward with the Missouri ballot initiative.

The Kansas City Chiefs have already taken a step into the sports betting world, teaming up with Game Sense and BetMGM for some in-stadium responsible gambling promos. It’s not a wild guess to say that we could soon see sportsbooks near or even inside these teams' home turf. Just picture catching a Cardinals game and placing a bet without missing a beat. That's the kind of world these teams are pushing for — a world where the action on the field and the action at the sportsbook go hand in hand.

Sports betting by category

Check out our resources on the best sportsbook for specific sports and leagues:

Missouri sports betting and the taxman

The proposed constitutional amendment lays out a plan for Missouri's professional sports teams and casinos to offer sports betting both onsite and through online platforms, accessible anywhere in the state. Depending on which initiative gets voted on, there could be up to 39 online sports betting apps. 

The initiatives are proposing a 10% tax, which is lower than in most jurisdictions. The market is expected to generate around $30 million annually when it's all up and running. Of that, $5 million would go towards a compulsive gamblers prevention fund, and most of the rest would be funneled to K-12 schools and higher education institutions.

All of this sounds great, but before we get too ahead of ourselves, the petition still needs signatures from 5% of legal voters in six out of eight voting districts to even make it onto a statewide ballot. 

So, while there is still a long way to go, Missouri bettors can look at how other markets are structured to see what the future may hold. The 10% tax rate is a sweet deal for sportsbooks as it creates a welcoming environment that will attract many players, ultimately giving bettors more options and competitive odds. In states with higher taxes, sportsbooks often offer worse odds to offset costs, but that won't be the case in Missouri.

What’s missing from Missouri sports betting?

As Missouri considers its stance on sports betting, it's interesting to compare potential offerings with those of other states. Certain bet types and categories, standard in most U.S. jurisdictions, might remain out of reach for Show-Me State bettors.

Politics

Betting on political events, whether it's the presidential race or local elections, is universally off-limits in the U.S. sports betting market. It's safe to assume Missouri won't diverge from this trend.

Entertainment Award Ceremonies 

Similarly, wagering on outcomes of entertainment events like the Oscars or Grammys isn't on the cards. It remains a no-go zone nationwide, and Missouri will likely follow suit. 

Esports 

While esports has a massive global following, many states tread cautiously with esports betting. Whether Missouri will embrace this digital arena or leave it on the sidelines remains to be seen. Only a handful of states, like Wyoming, have incorporated it into their sports betting laws.

What About Daily Fantasy Sports?

Missouri isn't new to the DFS scene. Thanks to the Missouri Fantasy Consumer Protection Act of 2016, giants like FanDuel and DraftKings, among others, have been legally serving Show-Me State residents with their daily fantasy offerings.

Missouri college sports betting 🎓

Missouri's vibrant college sports scene leaves many wondering how the state will tackle college sports betting. So far, there's no clear direction from the four propositions. Looking across the U.S., it's a mixed bag: some states are all in on college betting, while others throw in restrictions like nixing bets on homegrown college teams or specific players.

The state is home to some great college teams, with the Mizzou Tigers leading the way. Other notable programs include Missouri State and Saint Louis University.

Missourians love their college sports, so it's likely that any future sports betting rules would include them. The big question is which bets will be allowed, especially on local teams. But with college sports being such a big deal in Missouri, it's tough to think they'd be left out of the betting action.

Responsible Missouri sports betting

As sports betting gains traction nationwide, there's a heightened focus on problem gambling initiatives. Organizations like the National Council on Problem Gambling and Gamblers Anonymous have led the charge in offering help to those in need. Many sportsbooks are also stepping up, incorporating features and tools to assist users in keeping their betting habits in check. It's expected that Missouri will tap into these national resources and introduce its own programs tailored to its residents, ensuring a safe and controlled betting environment for all.

National U.S. gambling helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER

Sportsbooks to avoid in Missouri

For anyone in Missouri thinking about sports betting, here's a heads up: steer clear of those offshore sportsbooks. Even if their promotions look enticing, they don't have the safety net of U.S. regulations. This means if something goes wrong, you're on your own. It's best to stick with sportsbooks licensed in Missouri; they operate under state regulations, ensuring your bets and personal details are handled correctly.

Taking a peek at the shady side, here are some sportsbooks that have raised red flags.

 listed at the top of this page.

List of Missouri sports betting resources

Missouri General Assembly — State legislature

Office of the Attorney General — Missouri’s General Attorney’s Office

Missouri Legal Services — Easy access to Missouri’s legal information

National Council on Problem Gambling — Resources for those affected by problem gambling

Growth of sports betting 📈

When the U.S. Supreme Court repealed PASPA in 2018, the growth of legal sports betting in the United States skyrocketed. Close to three dozen states have since legalized some form of sports betting, with the most common legislation including the licensing of online sportsbooks and mobile betting apps. Check our legal sports betting tracker to find out more about any state you're interested in. 

Over the past two years, large states like Ohio and Massachusetts have enjoyed massively successful online betting launches. Sports fans get an extra way to engage with their favorite teams, and the states earn plenty of much-needed revenue from licensing fees and taxes.

Most recently, legal North Carolina sports betting arrived on March 11, 2024, bringing eight of the best sportsbooks in the country to the Tar Heel state.