The state of Delaware is taking a petition to the U.S. Third Circuit Court Of Appeals in Philadelphia, and asking the body to reexamine its position on single sport sports betting. Presumably to be taken online and in racetracks, sports gambling is not an uncommon activity. However sports associations and leagues such as the NCAA and the NFL feel this would increase the chances of game and match fixing. That is just the type of thing the FBI alleged former NBA referee Tim Donaghy, did while betting on games he officiated.
Since about 1976 Delaware, along with Montana, Oregon, and Nevada with its plethora of casinos were previously considered to be exempt from the Professional And Amateur Sports Protection Act, which basically states it is unlawful for a government or person to sponsor, operate, advertise, promote license, or authorize the gambling on a game or similar activity where amateur or professional sports were concerned. In July Delaware’s Governor, Democrat Jack Markell signed legislation the legalized sports betting into law. This law included individual games, much to the dismay of the sports leagues, who all filed an injunction with the Court of Appeals.
Delaware is looking to have the twelve appellate justices in Philadelphia to hear its case. “The State of Delaware should have its day in court,” said the governor. He believes that the court should decide whether the sports leagues should file a formal brief or if the injunction should be dismissed outright. The Governor added, “We hope we get that opportunity. We believe there are important legal and factual question that should be heard by the entire court.” Appellate Courts set their own schedule when it comes to hearing cases, but if delays occur, Delaware could take its case to the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington D.C. This will almost certainly affect sports betting in casinos and online throughout the country.
