Official betting is gambling on events that are officially sanctioned by state-regulated sportsbooks and bookmakers. It’s one of the most popular forms of legal gambling, and has become a major part of the industry since the Supreme Court struck down PASPA in 2018. State-regulated sportsbooks have rigorous licensing regimes that ensure game integrity, consumer safety and fairness. They also work with responsible gaming programs to help protect players and prevent problem gambling.

In the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling, several states have passed laws allowing sports betting. Most have launched retail sportsbooks, while others have begun to offer online and mobile betting. Ohio’s legalized sportsbooks and apps launched on Jan. 1, 2023, with SugarHouse, FanDuel and BetRivers among the first to go live. The Ohio state law allows for 25 sportsbooks once the market reaches maturity.

Connecticut legalized sports betting in October of 2021, with the first online and mobile sportsbooks going live a month later. DraftKings, FanDuel and PlaySugarHouse have all joined the mix of online sportsbook CT options, while BetMGM and Caesars Sportsbook are expected to launch their own sportsbook apps in the coming months.

MLB is dedicated to ensuring that fans who choose to wager have the tools and information they need to bet responsibly. That’s why the league is a partner in the American Gaming Association’s Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly. campaign and has an expanded partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling.