The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) announced Wednesday the third draft of Arizona sports betting rules, which covers how sports betting licenses will be allocated if there are more qualified applicants than available licenses.

The virtual public comment period for covering the draft allocation of licenses rules will take place from 10-11:30 a.m. PT on Friday, with written public comment accepted (same day) through 11:59 p.m. PT.

What Happens Next

Once licenses for sportsbooks become available, the ADG will announce an application period (time period/number of days to be announced).

If after the end of the application period, the department determines that there are more qualified applicants for a particular type of license than there are licenses available, the department will evaluate all qualified applicants under the department’s listed criteria and allocate.

• For an Arizona Indian Tribe, professional team (including PGA and NASCAR) and for a limited event wagering operator to qualify for a license, it must be an event wagering operator and employees must submit to background checks.
• If more than 10 Arizona Indian Tribes or professional sports teams qualify for a license, the ADG shall allocate the licenses and ensure an equal opportunity for all qualified applicants after meeting 19 specific steps listed (see link above in article).
• If more than 10 limited event wagering operators qualify for a license, the ADG shall allocate the licenses and ensure an equal opportunity for all qualified applicants after meeting 15 specific steps listed (see link above in article).
• In the event one or more previously allocated licenses becomes available, the ADG will announce an application period and follow allocation procedures accordingly.

Aiming For Football Season

Expanded gaming, which includes online sports betting and daily fantasy sports contests, is looking to launch in time for NFL betting when the season begins. The Dallas Cowboys visit the defending Super Bowl champions Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday, Sept. 9 in the opening game of the season.

The Arizona Cardinals open their 2021 season in Nashville against the Tennessee Titans on Sept. 12. The hope is that Arizona bettors will have a host of betting apps to choose from ahead of kickoff.