With a third debate in the House of Commons completed and cleared, Canada’s bid to legalize single-event sports betting took another step closer to fruition this week. Bill C-218, the enabling legislation, will now advance to the country’s Senate.
C-218 effectively amends the Criminal Code to enable provinces and territories to regulate online and terrestrial bets on the outcome of individual sports events, whereas currently only parlay wagering and horse race betting is allowed.
Among those first to respond to the news was Score Media and Gaming. Founder and CEO John Levy welcomed the passing of Bill C-218 by the House of Commons, which now moves to the Senate for reading and adoption.
He stated: “We commend the members on all sides of the House of Commons for quickly passing this much-needed legislation. Today’s development is a major step forward and we are increasingly encouraged by the widespread industry and strong cross-party support that Bill C-218 has garnered. Now that Bill C-218 has been passed by the House, we look forward to the Senate swiftly carrying the ball over the goal line.”
He added: “We also want to recognize MP Kevin Waugh for his tireless work in sponsoring and shepherding Bill C-218 through the House of Commons.”
theScore estimates a market potential for online gaming in Canada of between US$3.8bn and US$5.4bn in annual gross gaming revenue, based on historical data extrapolated from legal online gaming markets in the US and globally.
