the latest update from the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA) cited a number of upcoming key events which will shape the future of bringing legal single-game sports betting to Canada.
According to the CGA, there are parliamentary events surrounding two bills that would legalize single-game sports betting in Canada.
The private member bill option
Following a second reading and debate (5th February), MP Kevin Waugh’s c-218 public bill was up for a second reading – passing with a majority 303-15 vote on Wednesday.
The bill proceeds to what is most likely the final round of hearings before reaching Canada’s Justice Committee.
The House of Commons website describes two types of private members’ bills :
- Public bills – dealing with public policy issues under the scope of the Canada’s federal government (for example criminal laws relating to sports betting)
- Private bills – deal with the interests related to specific individuals or corporations
Bill C-13 – The ‘other’ sports betting bill
Canadian Government bill, C-13 also has potential to deliver the same end-result- single-game sports betting in Canada – removing its prohibition in the Criminal Code of Canada.
The Government’s bill is is due for a second reading and debate on February 19, 2021.
Are Legal Sports betting Bills in Canada Likely to Pass?
Despite there being two competing bills, many analysts expect that Canada will get single-game sports betting legislation pushed through parliament in 2021, enabling provinces to begin servicing the consumer market.
The government will additionally need to address the lack of consumer and market protection mechanisms.
If all goes according to advocates’ plans it is quite possible that that legal single-game betting in Canada could be a reality in time for the start of the next Hockey season.
London based reporter covering all aspects of the global regulated and unregulated land-based and online gambling industry - including business news, sports-betting, casinos, poker & regulation