Last week’s U.S. Supreme Court decision that opens the way for more sports betting is getting some bipartisan support among Tennessee state lawmakers.
One is Nashville Democrat House member Jason Powell, while the other is Republican Senator Brian Kelsey of Memphis.
Powell thinks the state constitution should be amended to allow Tennesseans to bet on their Titans, Preds, Grizzlies or even college teams, but he’s looking at taking it further to help fund things like transit or K-12 public schools.
Sen. Kelsey said sports betting “could mean millions of dollars toward K-12 education in Tennessee.”
Tennessee Lottery CEO Rebecca Hargrove said sports betting in places worldwide often comes under the control of their individual lotteries.
Two Republican candidates for governor have weighed in already on potential sports betting in Tennessee.
Randy Boyd, who owns three minor league baseball teams, said he “is opposed to sports betting.”
Diane Black’s campaign said she has “strong concerns,” but also said, “voters should be heard” on the issue.
Sports Betting Getting Support in Tennessee
May 23, 2018 | 5:00 AM