North Dakota Rejects 2026 Sports Betting Proposal in House Vote

North Dakota’s latest push for legalized sports betting hit a major roadblock in the House.

House Concurrent Resolution 3002, which aimed to bring sports betting to the 2026 ballot, failed decisively.

Proponents argued the measure could generate $30 million annually, but opposition from key groups sealed its fate.

Learn why North Dakota rejected sports betting again and what this means for future legalization efforts.

North Dakota House Blocks Sports Betting Proposal for 2026 Ballot

3 Key Points:

1. Proposal Rejected: The North Dakota House voted 70-24 against HCR 3002, blocking sports betting for the 2026 ballot.
2. Opposition Speaks Out: University leaders and advocacy groups voiced concerns over gambling’s impact on students and families.
3. Missed Revenue Potential: Legalizing sports betting could have generated an estimated $30 million annually for the state.

Efforts to legalize sports betting in North Dakota suffered another defeat as the House voted against House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 3002. The proposal, introduced by Rep. Scott Louser, would have allowed voters to decide in 2026 whether to legalize betting on professional and college sports. However, the measure was defeated by a 70-24 vote.

This marks yet another setback for sports betting advocates in the state. Similar proposals failed in 2019, 2021, and 2023. While sports betting is currently legal on tribal lands and in casinos, expanding access remains a contentious issue.

The Stakes: $30 Million in Potential Revenue

Rep. Louser argued that legalizing statewide sports betting could bring in up to $30 million annually. Proponents pointed to the success of other states, emphasizing how regulated sports betting channels could generate significant tax revenue while curbing illegal markets.

Despite these economic projections, opposition groups expressed concerns about gambling’s social and ethical implications. Representatives from the North Dakota University System, the North Dakota Family Alliance Legislative Action, and the North Dakota Catholic Conference testified against the measure. They raised alarms about gambling’s potential effects on college students and vulnerable populations.

Opposition’s Arguments: Social Impact Over Economic Gain

During the House Judiciary hearing, university officials opposed the proposal, citing risks to students’ financial and emotional well-being. Advocacy groups like the Family Alliance and the Catholic Conference echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the harms of gambling outweighed potential revenues.

Their stance aligns with North Dakota’s historically conservative approach to gaming. While neighboring states have embraced sports betting, North Dakota remains cautious, particularly about legalizing gambling outside tribal and casino environments.

What’s Next for North Dakota Sports Betting?

This vote is the latest chapter in North Dakota’s struggle with sports betting legalization. Despite the growing popularity of sports betting nationwide, the state remains divided. Opponents argue that ethical concerns and the protection of vulnerable communities take precedence.

However, with sports betting generating billions across the U.S., the economic potential cannot be ignored. Advocates may try again in future legislative sessions, but significant opposition could delay any progress until after 2026.

A Missed Opportunity or Necessary Caution?

The rejection of HCR 3002 reflects North Dakota’s cautious stance on expanding gambling. While the state could have tapped into a lucrative market, concerns over gambling’s social impact took precedence.

For now, sports betting remains limited to tribal lands and casinos in North Dakota. As other states reap the rewards of legalized gambling, North Dakota’s path forward will depend on balancing ethical concerns with economic opportunities. The question remains: will North Dakota eventually embrace sports betting, or will it continue to hold out against national trends?