Connecticut could become the first U.S. state to legalize sports betting on commercial flights under a newly proposed bill, as the state looks to capitalize on the growing economic potential of the gambling industry.
State Representative Christopher Rosario has introduced House Bill 6051, which would allow passengers on flights to and from Connecticut to place sports wagers while in the air. The proposal comes as Delta Airlines partners with DraftKings to explore in-flight sports betting opportunities.
“Betting has become big business in the state of Connecticut, and if this takes off, literally, no pun intended, let’s be there to capture some of that revenue,” Rosario said, as per FOX61.
The bill follows record-breaking sports betting revenue in Connecticut, with the state generating $30.3 million from the activity in November 2024 alone, according to the Department of Consumer Protection.
Under the proposed legislation, 1% of in-flight gambling revenue would be directed toward public education, benefiting both urban and rural school districts.
However, the bill faces pushback from U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, who warns of gambling-related risks in a confined in-flight environment.
“It is a recipe for disaster, and that’s why it is banned now. It should not be permitted by any state law,” Blumenthal said.
The senator has introduced the SAFE Bet Act, a measure aimed at establishing federal standards for sports gambling and mitigating addiction risks.
“While someone is on a plane in flight, they are in essence a captive audience, particularly young people who may bet a lot more than they can afford,” he added.
House Bill 6051 is now headed to the General Law Committee for review and debate. While acknowledging the hurdles, Rosario emphasized that the bill is in its early stages.
“It’s a concept. I want to at least start the conversation and see how it goes,” he said.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/02/10/94675-connecticut-lawmaker-pushes-to-legalize-sports-betting-on-flights
