Following the passing of Bill C-218, a Bill by the Canadian Senate to amend the Canadian Criminal Code allowing single-event betting on sporting events, the Canadian government issued a statement this week confirming that single-event sports betting will be legalized on August 27, 2021.
The announcement was made in a letter signed by the Honorable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Labour, and Irek Kusmierczyk, Member of Parliament for Windsor—Tecumseh, on behalf of the Honorable David Lametti, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada.
“Strengthening our economy by supporting the decriminalization of single event sport betting is important to the Government of Canada and contributes to the creation of a safer and stronger Canada,.. Canadians recognize that single-event sports betting should take place in a safe and regulated environment, while also supporting good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. Communities with existing Canadian casinos and other gaming operations, particularly along the Canada-US border, could benefit from single event sport betting, especially in light of recent changes in US gambling laws.”
Previously single-event betting was only permitted on horse-racing in in Canada.
It has been estimated that Canadian gamblers wager up to $4B annually on international / offshore betting sites (Source: Canadian Gaming Association)
Beginning August 27, provinces and territories will be able to regulate and manage single event sport betting in their respective jurisdictions, enabling Canadians of legal-age to place bets in a regulated and safe environment, either online or in land-based facilities.
The only exception to this rule is horse racing betting, which will continue to be regulated by the federal government.
“The revenues generated from this type of gambling could be used by provinces and territories to fund programs and services in areas such as health care and education, as they currently do with other lottery revenues,” the government statement continued.
“The Government of Canada is working with provinces and territories, as well as Indigenous nations, communities, and organizations, to better understand and respond to calls for increased opportunities for Indigenous peoples to participate in the conduct and regulation of gaming in Canada.
“The federal government remains committed to continuing discussions about the future of gaming with provincial and territorial partners, as well as Indigenous nations, communities, and organizations.”
Filomena Tassi said , “Legalizing single event sport betting will help workers in the gaming industry in Windsor, across Southwestern Ontario, and across the country.”
“This change will help to secure good jobs and allow profits to be reinvested in the growth of our communities.” Our government will continue to work with unions and workers to promote fairness for Canadian workers and prosperity throughout our region.”
Based in London, Natasha is a former sports journalist with experience working for some of the biggest athletes & brands in the world of sports and iGaming.