‘I’m not a fan’: United States Senator Josh Hawley expresses concern over sports betting

By: Noel Hardin

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KQTV) -- Missouri’s legal sports betting market is now live, allowing residents to place wagers on professional sports, but U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) said he isn't a fan.

Beginning Dec. 1, Missourians ages 21 and over can legally bet on the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL and other professional sports through licensed operators, provided they are physically located within the state.

While many celebrated the launch, Hawley reiterated his strong opposition.

Hawley, who voted against the legalization initiative on the November ballot, expressed deep concern about the social costs of expanded gambling.

"I'm not a fan of sports betting, and I never have been," Hawley stated. "I certainly respect that the voters approved it... But I'll be frank with you, I voted no on that."

Hawley predicted negative consequences, calling the practice "hugely addictive."

"I just think that what we're going to see more and more, my prediction is we're going to see that it's hugely addictive," he said. "It's going to cause all kinds of problems for athletes, for collegiate athletes, for individuals, for families. I hope I'm wrong. I would love to be proved wrong, but I just have to tell you, I'm not a fan of it."

The legalization measure, approved by voters, includes a provision to fund problem gambling resources.

According to the Missouri Gaming Commission, a 10% tax will be applied to the gross revenue of sports betting operators.

That tax revenue is designated for the treatment, prevention and education of gambling problems within the state.