Kentuckians can begin sports wagering on September 7, 2023

On Monday, Governor Andy Beshear announced that sports wagering will be available in Kentucky starting September 7, 2023, immediately following the approval of emergency administrative regulations by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission.

With the passage of these regulations, horse racing facilities can apply for the license starting July 11, 2023. After the applications are approved, the racing facilities will be able to begin retail betting operations starting on September 7, 2023.

Mobile sports wagering is set to begin on September 28.

“This is a historic day for our commonwealth – sports wagering will open for the first time in Kentucky in less than 60 days,” said Gov. Beshear. “Bringing sports wagering to the state not only gives Kentuckians a much-anticipated new form of entertainment, but also brings money to the state to support pensions, freeing up money that can be used to build a better Kentucky through the funding of education, economic development, disaster recovery and other necessary projects, like providing cleaner water, building roads and high-speed internet.”

During the press conference, bill sponsor Representative Michael Meredith commended the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission for their work to enact sports wagering, especially on such a quick timeline. He also said the sports wagering legislation, House Bill 551, would not have been possible without the bipartisan support across the General Assembly.  

Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts released the following statement after the announcement:

“The Kentucky Chamber is proud to see sports wagering become a reality after many years of strong support. We want to thank Governor Beshear, Chairman Meredith, the legislators who voted for the bill, the horse racing industry, and the thousands of Kentuckians who made their voices heard to make sports wagering a possibility in the Commonwealth. The Chamber looks forward to the opportunities this will bring Kentucky.”