The Wisconsin Senate voted Tuesday to legalize online sports betting, approving a measure that would allow the 11 Native American tribes to operate mobile wagering statewide.
The Senate passed Assembly Bill 601 by a 21-12 vote. Twelve Democrats joined with nine Republicans to support the measure, while three Democrats and nine Republicans opposed it.
The bill now goes to Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, whose position on the measure remains unclear.
The legislation exempts sports wagers placed on phones or computers from state gambling restrictions, provided the servers are located on tribal lands and comply with existing gaming compacts. Tribes would control the market and retain most revenue under renegotiated agreements requiring state and federal approval.
The Assembly passed the bill on February 19 by voice vote, with minimal debate and few recorded objections. Tuesday was expected to be the Senate’s final floor session of the year.
Senate Democratic Leader Dianne Hesselbein stated her caucus would provide the necessary votes to advance the bipartisan proposal. Some Republicans, including Sen. Chris Kapenga of Delafield, opposed the bill, citing concerns about a tribal monopoly and limited competition from national operators such as DraftKings and FanDuel. These companies have lobbied against the bill’s structure.
Currently, sports betting in Wisconsin is limited to in-person wagers at tribal casinos. Supporters argue the measure would regulate activity already occurring illegally through out-of-state apps, generate revenue for tribes, and maintain the state’s constitutional framework for gambling.
Opponents within the GOP argued that it gives tribes an unfair advantage and bypasses broader market access. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu advanced the bill despite Republican divisions, relying on Democratic support.
Evers, who has previously supported tribal gaming expansions, has not publicly stated his position on AB 601. His office has not commented on whether he will sign or veto the legislation.
The bill advanced quickly through the Senate after weeks of caucus negotiations. If signed, it would require new tribal-state compacts and approval from the U.S. Department of the Interior before mobile betting could begin.
Tuesday’s action caps a legislative effort that began last fall. Tribes have endorsed the proposal, stating it modernizes their gaming operations without expanding gambling beyond their constitutional role.
