Louisiana's Senate Bill 354 (SB 354), which intended to extend limitations on prop bets, will no longer progress this session. The choice keeps professional prop bets and micro-bets offered throughout US online sportsbooks operating in the state.
It's crucial to keep in mind that Louisiana had actually currently prohibited private gamer prop bets for college sports in 2024. SB 354 would have used similar constraints to professional sports, targeting wagers connected to in-game outcomes and gamer efficiency.
Senator Katrina Jackson-Andrews Withdraws SB 354
Senator Katrina Jackson-Andrews presented SB 354 earlier in 2026 to curb growing concerns over professional sports betting. She ultimately decided to withdraw the bill before it might advance even more in the legislative process.
The choice followed feedback from stakeholders and fiscal experts, together with careful consideration of unintended repercussions. Lawmakers selected to stop briefly the proposal rather than push forward in the middle of uncertainty.
SB 354's Key Provisions
SB 354 concentrated on expert prop bets and micro-bets. Micro-bets are short-term wagers on small events during a video game (e.g., betting on whether the next pitch is a strike). The costs would have forbidden:
Player-specific prop bets in expert leagues such as the NFL, NBA, and MLB
In-game micro-bets connected to specific plays or results
Fast-paced wagering markets targeting single occasions
Supporters highlighted rising concerns about athlete harassment, keeping in mind a growing trend of players being called or pushed by wagerers over specific outcomes. This problem has been particularly prominent in the NCAA and NBA, and it was a major individual incentive for Senator Jackson-Andrews.
Critics, however, cautioned that the ban would eliminate a considerable profits stream and interrupt the professional sports wagering market.
Lost Tax Revenue Raises Red Flags
A fiscal analysis was definitive in the bill's withdrawal. Estimates recommended that prop and micro-bets could cost Louisiana $40 million yearly.
These wagers make up approximately 40% of online betting volume in the state. Removing them would considerably reduce taxable revenue, which supports multiple state programs.
Supporters stressed customer defenses and reducing athlete-targeted harassment. Opponents, consisting of market stakeholders, argued that limiting professional prop bets would deteriorate US online sportsbooks operating in Louisiana and might drive gamblers toward overseas or unregulated markets.
What's Next for Louisiana Sports Betting?
Although SB 354 is withdrawn, the debate over professional prop bets continues. Lawmakers are thinking about ways to stabilize accountable gaming, athlete defenses, and market health.
Future proposals may concentrate on targeted safeguards, such as limits on high-risk wagers or enhanced responsible gaming measures, instead of straight-out restrictions. Local politics, popular opinion, and financial concerns will influence any brand-new legislation.
In the meantime, expert prop bets remain legal, while college-specific player props continue to be banned. The withdrawal of SB 354 underscores continuous conversations about Louisiana gambling guideline and the Pelican State's developing sports betting landscape.
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Louisiana Withdraws SB 354, Professional Prop Bets Safe
kirafarncomb01 edited this page 2026-04-29 19:46:08 -05:00