Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont confirmed yesterday that the state has been given final approval by the federal US Bureau of Indian Affairs to launch sports betting and online gaming. The feds approved revisions to gaming compacts between Connecticut, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, and the Mohegan Tribe.
In his Thursday Tweet, the Governor wrote “I thank @USIndianAffairs for approving these revisions, as well as the efforts of the Mohegan and Mashantucket Pequot Tribes. Today’s announcement puts CT on the cusp of providing a modern, technologically advanced gaming experience competitive with our neighboring states.”
Lamont later added: “This critical step in the process of modernizing our gaming landscape here in Connecticut ensures that our state will have a competitive, nation-leading marketplace for wagering both in-person and online.”
It’s expected that sports betting will launch officially in Connecticut next month.
Manshantucket Pequot chairman, Rodney Butler said that it was a day of celebration for the state. He added that modernizing the gaming industry would help protect and create jobs in Connecticut, as well as generate tax revenues for state budgets and tribal members.
“This is not just a regional issue,” he said. “It will have a statewide impact as Connecticut works to meet critical needs as it recovers from the pandemic. Today is a milestone achievement for Connecticut and its tribal nations.”