Florida lawmakers have introduced House Bill 189 to target rigged and illegal sports betting in the state. The legislation was proposed in December 2025 and, if passed, would take effect in July 2026.
The bill comes after a series of national scandals, including FBI arrests of more than 30 people in October 2025 for providing insider information to NBA gamblers and November indictments of two Cleveland Guardians pitchers accused of manipulating games.
Key Provisions of House Bill 189
House Bill 189 includes:
- Increased penalties for bribing players or accepting bribes to influence outcomes in professional and amateur sports, including horse racing.
- Classification of betting on contests with prearranged or predetermined outcomes as a third-degree felony, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison.
- Enhanced state oversight of sports wagering and preemption of local governments from setting separate betting rules.
Purpose and Next Steps
The legislation aims to preserve the integrity of Florida sports betting, prevent illegal gambling, and protect athletes from corruption. Lawmakers are currently reviewing the bill, and public hearings could shape its final form before a potential July 2026 implementation date.
