Could Push for New Casinos Spark Idaho Sports Betting Interest?

Could interest in building a massive casino complex near Boise be the vessel through which Idaho sports betting gains momentum? 

This is not a mainstream question at the moment. And that’s because sports betting in Idaho is galaxies from a mainstream topic. The Gem State has some of the hardest line laws against gambling in the United States. Pari-mutuel betting and the state’s lottery are basically the only exceptions. 

Industry believes will still harp on the ubiquity of legalized gambling. The popularity of online sports betting in the United States continues to soar. Once Missouri sports betting launches sometime in 2025, 39 states as well as the District of Columbia will offer some form of sports wagering. As a result, most assume that it is only a matter of time before the remaining holdouts cave.

And yet, when it comes to Idaho sports betting, the possibility actually seems to be growing more remote over time. The Gem State has shown zero interest in legalized sports betting since the United States Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) over a half-decade ago. Not only that, but Idaho continues to put distance between themselves and anything related to sports wagering. Lawmakers actually banned Idaho daily fantasy sports before PASPA was ever reversed.

Still, many live by a “never say never” motto on this subject. And with that in mind, the recent battle for the rights to build a mega Idaho casino complex could hint at changing tides. 

Is A New Casino Complex Coming to Idaho?

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are reportedly trying to build a sprawling Idaho casino facility sometime in the near future. Here is KIDO Talk Radio’s Kevin Miller with the details:

“A few years ago, the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes bought 157 acres in Elmore County. The speculation at the time was that a casino would be built on the land, employing over one thousand people and generating a significant amount of revenue. Idaho is one of the most law-and-order states in the country. Online betting is not allowed in the Gem State, although other states have legalized gambling. The Shoshone Bannock Tribe explains in a release that the lands around Mountain Home are part of their tribal lands, which would open the door for a casino in Idaho. The buzz at the time was nonstop, but the story seemed to fade. 

“However, the Tribes provided an update, saying they will submit a proposal to build a massive entertainment complex. They describe what the multi use facility would look like impacting the Boise area. 'Tribes are proposing a casino resort complex that would include gaming, a hotel, restaurants, an event center, an amphitheater for concerts; and other community entertainment venues, such as a movie theater, bowling alley and family video arcade.'”

Two proposals for a casino near Boise have since been submitted to the Department of the Interior. They said their next steps will include additional research. This process reportedly entails gauging the environmental capacity for such a complex as well as measuring support among Idahoans.

This last part is important. If Gem State residents advocate for casino gaming expansion, could that be a precursor to also wanting Idaho sports betting?

Idaho Tribes Say State Residents are Showing ‘Overwhelming’ Support for New Casino 

At this time, it is not clear how the Idaho casino proposal(s) will play out. But if they fail, it apparently won’t be due to a lack of voter support.

 "We have received overwhelming support for the project from citizens in the community as they have a desire to build a better future for their families and community," explains Alonzo Coby, Planning Director for the Tribes (via Miller). "They recognize the potential of the project to bring jobs, new businesses, increase revenue, and provide community and social activities such as a new hotel with restaurants, movie theaters and a bowling alley." 

Believe it or not, much of this logic can be applied to the legalization of Idaho sports betting. The addition of brick-and-mortar sportsbooks can create jobs, albeit not too many. But the potential Idaho sports betting revenue is the draw. And make no mistake, there is money for the state to make.

Using data from similar markets, we estimate that Idaho sports betting tax revenue may be worth around $8 million per year. That is a hefty chunk of change. But is it enough to generate interest among lawmakers?

Don’t Hold Your Breath for Idaho Sports Betting Legalization

Ultimately, we are not sure what to make the Idaho casino pitches and how it might relate to sports betting. If approved, though, it certainly will not be a bad sign to those looking for progress.

Even so, The Gem State already has casinos. All the while, they have maintained a strong opposition to sports wagering. The addition of another one, however massive and modern, may not do anything to change their tune.

To that end, we feel comfortable saying Idaho sports betting legalization is more than two to four years away. Simply put, there just hasn’t been enough indications to the contrary. And that raises the question: When will we know if tides are changing?

Interestingly enough, we can use this casino proposal as a barometer. The state is surveying voter interest in the initiative. If Idaho ever commissions sports betting studies, it will be a harbinger that they are actually thinking about it. 

Even then, of course, there is no guarantee that leads to policy overhaul. But it would at least be a start—evidence that local leaders are digging deeper into the matter, for whatever reason. Because as of right now, Idaho sports betting is not on the state’s agenda at all. 

Take a look at this list of the top online sportsbooks so you can find one that works for all of your sports betting needs: