Georgia House Bill HR450

Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/25
• Report Pass: 3/6/25

Caption

General Assembly; authorize sports betting in Georgia; provide by law - CA

Impact

If passed, HR450 will significantly alter the state's regulatory landscape by introducing sports betting as a legalized activity, which has previously been prohibited. The bill stipulates that proceeds from sports betting will be allocated both to educational initiatives and to programs addressing gambling-related addiction. Specifically, it is designated that 15% of the first $150 million in proceeds will go to addiction prevention services, while the remaining funds will be directed towards educational purposes, thus aiming to enhance Georgia's educational resources.

Summary

House Resolution 450 (HR450) proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Georgia, allowing the Georgia General Assembly to enact legislation for sports betting within the state. The bill aims to authorize and regulate sports betting activities, outlining the creation of a dedicated trust fund to manage the revenue generated from these activities. The main objective of HR450 is to provide an additional funding source for educational programs, including voluntary pre-kindergarten and HOPE scholarships.

Contention

There may be some contention regarding HR450, as opponents of legalized sports betting often express concerns about gambling addiction and the potential for negative social impacts. Supporters argue the economic benefits and increased funding for education; however, critics may question the adequacy of measures to address addiction and the long-term effects of normalizing gambling activities. The debate will likely center around balancing fiscal benefits with social responsibility and community impacts.