Sportsbooks get ready to launch
Colorado has issued additional operator licenses as it ramps up preparations to roll out digital and retail sportsbooks. DraftKings and Ameristar were among the second round of sports betting license applicants to get the green light.
50+ sportsbook applications received
The announcement of the new license holders took place during a special meeting held by the state’s Limited Gaming Control Commission. The session saw the authorities get through more of the 50+ sportsbook applications received, ahead of the official May 1 start date.
Some successful applicants
DraftKings got approval for two sports betting licenses. It will be opening both an online and retail sportsbook in Colorado.
the seventh DraftKings sportsbook to open in the US
The retail operation will be at Black Hawk’s Golden Mardi Gras Casino, which is owned by Twin River Worldwide Holdings. The facility will be the seventh DraftKings sportsbook to open in the US. Score Digital Sports Ventures, which operates the theScore BET platform, also got a license to open an online sportsbook.
Score Media Ventures, along with Global Payments Gaming Service, have a vendor major license and vendor minor license respectively. This allows them to provide secondary services to sportsbook operators, such as marketing and technology solutions.
Three of the casinos in the state are in possession of master licenses. These are the Isle Casino and Hotel, Lady Luck Casino, and Ameristar Casino. Each will be able to open a retail sportsbook, as well as partner with online operators to create a mobile offering.
The previous round of approvals
The first round of sportsbook license approvals took place in February. Seven casinos across Cripple Creek, Central City, and Black Hawk obtained master licenses.
During the November 2019 state midterm elections, a public vote was held on Proposition DD, which regarded the legalization of sports betting in Colorado. The measure was narrowly approved.
A 10% tax will be imposed on sports betting revenues, with the state hoping to receive about $29m through taxes each year. Most of the funds generated will be used to improve Colorado’s water infrastructure.