The American Gaming Association has renewed hope that the US Congress will approve widespread regulated sports betting in the country.
The optimism follows this week’s announcement that the US Supreme Court will hear the appeal from the state of New Jersey against the ban on sports betting.
In a statement, the AGA said it was hopeful that the Supreme Court decision would spur "Congress to take the steps necessary to create a regulated sports betting marketplace in the US."
The statement continued: “The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 has failed to protect sports and fans. PASPA, which is approaching its 25th anniversary, is fuelling an unregulated $150bn illegal gambling market that continues to deprive states of vital public funding for services such as law enforcement and infrastructure.
“We are pleased the Supreme Court appears to have responded favourably to our arguments as to why they should hear this important case. And we are hopeful their engagement will provide further encouragement for Congress to take the steps necessary to create a regulated sports betting marketplace in the US.
“The gaming industry, and the American Sports Betting Coalition, is committed to working with all relevant stakeholders to build a system that protects states' rights, fans and the integrity of sports."
No date has yet been set for the Supreme Court hearing.
