Georgia Lawmakers Revive HB 910 Without Referendum

Jonathan Rodriguez

Written by: Jonathan Rodriguez

Published: Mon Jan 19, 2026, 8:00 am ET

Read Time: 3 minutes

Georgia Lawmakers Revive HB 910 Without Referendum

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As the 2026 Georgia legislative session convenes, lawmakers are once again revisiting the high-stakes debate over legalizing sports betting. 

With the state remaining a prominent "island of prohibition" in the Southeast, supporters are moving forward with a revised legal strategy to bypass previous roadblocks and tap into a market currently dominated by offshore platforms.

What is Georgia Lawmakers' Strategy for HB 910?

Representative Matt Hatchett has officially reintroduced House Bill 910 for the 2026 session, carrying over a framework first proposed in 2025. This legislation aims to bring sports betting under the direct regulatory authority of the Georgia Lottery Corporation, positioning the state to finally attract major US online sportsbooks.

The bill outlines a robust digital-only framework that would allow the Lottery to issue up to 18 Type 1 mobile sportsbook licenses. Under this model, operators would be required to pay a $100,000 nonrefundable application fee and a $1.5 million annual licensing fee. 

Furthermore, the state would impose a 25% tax on adjusted gross wagering revenue, with the proceeds constitutionally earmarked for the HOPE Scholarship and Pre-K programs. 

Notably, the bill allocates specific licenses to Georgia's professional sports entities, including the Atlanta Braves, Falcons, Hawks, United, and Dream. Major golf and racing organizations like the PGA Tour and Atlanta Motor Speedway will also be allocated licenses.

A Legislative Path Without a Voter Referendum

The most significant feature of HB 910 is its procedural approach: the bill does not call for a constitutional amendment or a statewide voter referendum. Rep. Hatchett and other supporters argue that because the Georgia Constitution already permits a state lottery, sports betting can simply be classified as a "lottery game" via standard legislation. 

This strategy aims to secure approval through a simple majority in both chambers. It avoids the two-thirds majority requirement that has derailed Georgia gambling bills for nearly a decade.

Potential Impact on Georgia Gambling

If passed, HB 910 would fundamentally transform Georgia gambling policy. It could move the state from total prohibition to one of the most significant regulated markets in the country.

Proponents argue the bill helps Georgia compete regionally and recapture tax revenue currently flowing to neighboring states. Additionally, legalizing the industry would allow established US online sportsbooks to enter the market.

This push comes after years of stalled progress and dozens of failed attempts. Back in 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling that struck down the federal ban on sports betting. Since then, Georgia lawmakers have seen bills stall in committee or fall short of the necessary floor votes. 

Many of these past attempts struggled specifically because they relied on the "referendum path". This proved too politically divisive to clear the high constitutional threshold required for an amendment.

Navigating the "Wiedower Gap"

HB 910's success depends on whether supporters can navigate the leadership void known as the "Wiedower Gap." For years, former Representative Marcus Wiedower championed sports betting, bridging the gap between lobbyists and hesitant lawmakers.

With Wiedower's resignation in late 2025, the pro-betting coalition has lost its most seasoned navigator. While Chairman Hatchett carries significant weight, the absence of Wiedower's specialized focus leaves a vacuum in the bill's defense.

As the 2026 election cycle looms, supporters must overcome the "Wiedower Gap" to legalize Georgia gambling and US online sportsbooks.

Jonathan Rodriguez
Jonathan Rodriguez

Jonathan is an avid basketball fan, and is often looking forward to the next upcoming NBA season when not checking players' stats during games. He also likes to keep his ears on the ground for the latest rumblings in the online casino industry.

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