Sports Betting in Vermont: Legal Status, Regulations, and Future Outlook
Vermont, known for its scenic beauty and progressive stance on many social issues, has taken a cautious but steady approach toward the legalization of sports betting. As of 2025, sports betting is legal in the state, and residents can participate through authorized online platforms. The decision to legalize sports betting followed the nationwide trend after the 2018 Supreme Court ruling that allowed states to regulate the industry individually.
Legalization and Regulatory Framework
The Vermont General Assembly passed legislation in 2023 to authorize and regulate online sports betting. Governor Phil Scott signed the bill into law, allowing the Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery (DLL) to oversee the industry. This regulatory body is responsible for licensing operators, ensuring responsible gambling measures, and collecting taxes on sports betting revenues.
Under the law, only online sports betting is permitted. There are no physical sportsbooks or retail betting locations within the state. The rationale behind this decision is to minimize overhead costs and streamline the industry’s operation through digital platforms.
Authorized Operators and Platforms
As of now, Vermont allows a limited number of licensed operators, typically between two and six, to provide online sports betting services. These operators are selected through a competitive bidding process, and they must comply with strict requirements regarding consumer protection, financial integrity, and responsible gambling practices.
Residents of Vermont aged 21 or older can place bets on a wide variety of sports, including professional leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. College sports betting is also permitted, but betting on in-state college teams or collegiate events taking place within Vermont is prohibited to protect student-athletes.
Taxation and Revenue Allocation
Sports betting operators in Vermont are required to pay a significant percentage of their adjusted gross revenue to the state. The tax rate is structured to ensure a steady stream of income without discouraging operator participation. Revenues generated from sports betting are allocated to the state’s general fund and used to support education, infrastructure, and addiction treatment programs.
In 2024, the first full year of legal sports betting, Vermont generated millions in tax revenue, exceeding early projections and reinforcing the decision to legalize the industry.
Responsible Gambling Initiatives
The Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery has implemented a comprehensive responsible gambling program. All operators must provide tools for users to set deposit limits, time limits, and self-exclusion options. The state also funds educational campaigns and support services for individuals struggling with gambling-related problems.
These measures are central to Vermont’s philosophy of balancing economic opportunity with social responsibility. The state places a strong emphasis on protecting its residents from the potential harms of gambling.
Public Opinion and Cultural Impact
Public response to the legalization of sports betting in Vermont has been largely positive. Many residents appreciate the convenience of legal online platforms and the added revenue that supports state programs. However, there remains a segment of the population that is concerned about the potential for increased problem gambling and underage betting.
To address these concerns, Vermont continues to monitor industry trends and public health outcomes, ensuring that any necessary policy adjustments can be made quickly and effectively.
The Future of Sports Betting in Vermont
Looking ahead, Vermont is expected to expand its sports betting offerings by possibly increasing the number of licensed operators or exploring new wagering formats such as in-game betting and live streaming integrations. While the state has no immediate plans to introduce retail sportsbooks, this could change if public demand increases or if the online market reaches saturation.
In addition, Vermont may consider joining multi-state compacts or partnerships to increase liquidity and expand the betting pool. This would align the state with others in the region, such as New Hampshire and New York, which have already established successful sports betting programs.
Conclusion
Vermont’s entry into the sports betting market marks a significant shift in the state’s approach to gambling. By focusing exclusively on online betting and prioritizing consumer protection, Vermont has crafted a modern and controlled sports wagering environment. As the market matures, the state will likely continue refining its policies to balance revenue generation with social responsibility, ensuring that sports betting remains a sustainable and beneficial industry for all Vermonters.
