The PGA TOUR joined the chorus of major professional sports organizations urging Georgia lawmakers to allow sports betting, according to WSB-TV. The golf organization's comments come as the state begins to discuss legalization once again.
Key Takeaways
- The PGA TOUR testified in support of legalizing sports betting in Georgia.
- Lawmakers are reconsidering gambling as a revenue source amid tax reform proposals.
- Religious and conservative groups continue to oppose the expansion of gambling.
Scott Warfield, head of the PGA Tour's gaming division, testified before the House Study Committee on Gaming. He aligned the Tour's stance with Atlanta-based teams such as the Falcons, Braves, Hawks, and Atlanta United. Warfield argued that sports betting not only deepens fan engagement but also brings younger audiences into golf. He noted that modest wagers could help casual fans discover storylines within tournaments.
The committee is reviewing options for both sports betting and casino gambling. Lawmakers have considered legalization multiple times over the past decade, but a proposal to eliminate the state income tax has renewed urgency for new revenue streams.
Still, opposition remains strong. Religious leaders likened the argument for gambling to justifying other addictive or illegal activities. The committee will meet twice more before presenting findings to the General Assembly.
Georgia reexamines wider gambling expansion
Apart from sporting bets, Georgian lawmakers are contemplating the legalization of casino resorts, horse races, and iGaming. Last month, the House Study Committee on Gaming began its hearings, and the first focus was casino development.
One proposal involves a large resort near EchoPark Speedway in Hampton, projected to generate thousands of construction and permanent jobs. Proponents said such projects would keep local workers employed closer to home.
A major point of contention is who would receive gambling revenue. Proposals submitted include allocations to support healthcare and education initiatives and to recoup lost federal funding.
Internal surveys indicated robust popular support for legalization, but critics warned of addictive potential, crime, and financial insecurity. Committee Chair Marcus Wiedower again stressed that the goal is to control existing gambling rather than stimulate new ones.
A constitutional amendment to permit sports betting still has a chance to pass in the upcoming session.
FanDuel supports veterans through golf initiative
As lawmakers deliberate, industry operators continue community-focused outreach. FanDuel, an official betting operator of the PGA TOUR, donated $100,000 to Next 18, a nonprofit founded by a U.S. Army veteran.
The organization uses golf-related wellness initiatives to support first responders and military veterans in managing their mental health. The donation was revealed at the PGA Tour's John Deere Classic at a putting clinic for first responders and military personnel.
FanDuel executives highlighted their commitment to supporting communities where they operate, emphasizing the importance of veteran and first responder wellness.
"We are proud to support Next 18 as it delivers critical programs that promote long-term well-being after service and empowers veterans and first responders through sports," said FanDuel's VP of community impact, Keita Young.
The funding will help expand Next 18's golf camps, peer networks, and holistic training initiatives.
