Is Sports Betting Taking Off? The Legality of Connecticut’s In-Flight Sports Betting Bill
Photo Source: Jason O’Halloran, Airplanes, Flickr (Apr. 12, 2007) (CC-BY SA 2.0).
By: Hadley Starr* Posted: 3/20/2025
Imagine the next time you are on a flight; you put on the airline-provided headphones.[1] Then, instead of picking an in-flight movie from the screen, you select online sports betting.[2] This could be a reality in Connecticut.[3] On January 22, 2025, Connecticut State Representative Christopher Rosario introduced House Bill 6051 (“HB 6051”), which, if passed, would legalize sports betting on planes flying in and out of Connecticut.[4]
History of Sports Betting
Connecticut is a state that profits tremendously from sports betting.[5] In 2021, Connecticut’s legislature voted to legalize sports betting, allowing the state to tap into a new market of revenues.[6] To provide a data-driven example of the large-scale revenues enjoyed by Connecticut after legalizing sports betting, in November 2024 alone Connecticut brought in $30.3 million in revenues from three online sportsbooks and two physical sports betting wagering sites.[7] Recently, Delta Airlines proposed a partnership with DraftKings to bring in-flight sports betting opportunities to Delta customers.[8] When Representative Rosario learned of this partnership, he believed it would be an opportunity for Connecticut to generate even more revenue from the gambling industry.[9]
Connecticut’s Proposed Legislation
HB 6051 will be drafted to comply with current agreements between the state of Connecticut and the two Native American tribes that operate casinos in state, and will abide by the laws of Connecticut concerning sports wagering.[10] Under the proposed provisions of HB 6051, one percent of all revenue generated from in-flight sports wagering will be allocated to Connecticut's public rural and urban school districts.[11] In proposing the bill, Representative Rosario highlighted the revenue it would bring into the state.[12] As of now, compliance with state and Native American law, as well as allocating a portion of the revenues to public schools, are the only substantive proposals detailed in HB 6051.[13] However, in 2024, Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal introduced the SAFE Bet bill to mitigate the risks of gambling addictions.[14] While this bill has not yet passed, it would require Connecticut to minimize sports betting advertisements and limit artificial intelligence to make betting a less addictive product.[15] Because it is unlikely HB 6051 and the SAFE Bet bill can coexist, the Connecticut legislature must figure out how to balance capitalization on sports betting revenues while also being cognizant of the harm and detriment gambling can cause.[16]
Legality and Issues with Sports Betting on Planes
Despite the proposal of HB 6051, the 1962 Gambling Devices Act currently prohibits in-flight gambling.[17] Representative Rosario stated that the Trump Administration could change this prohibition.[18] It is unlikely, however, that this bill will pass in Connecticut anytime soon.[19] Commercial flights often fly over multiple states and, sometimes, even international borders.[20] This complicates the enforceability and protocols of state-specific gambling laws, which often vary from state to state.[21] Sports betting, for instance, is still banned in many states, including Texas, Georgia, and Minnesota.[22] Thus, if an airline flight containing sports betting as an in-flight entertainment option were to fly over those states, it would implicate state-specific laws.[23] Sports wagering retailers must be licensed to operate in specific locations.[24] This proposed bill would need to address how restrictions would apply to the unique and changing locations of airplanes.[25] Determining which jurisdiction’s laws apply at various points during a flight would require careful legal navigation, which may be too cumbersome to abide by.[26] Therefore, if the Trump Administration does not change its prohibition, HB 6051 will likely never be implemented.[27]
The fact that sports betting requires that individuals placing a bet be physically present within the state implies that sports betting is tightly regulated to comply with and remain within the boundaries of Connecticut.[28] To obtain the right to operate sports betting, one must obtain approval from the Commissioner of Consumer Protection (“CCP”).[29] This regulatory framework strictly manages gambling.[30] Thus, it would likely be difficult for State Representative Rosario to receive approval from the CCP.[31] The CCP has a duty and responsibility to ensure responsible gambling.[32] Promoting gambling in confined environments could lead to increased instances of problems with gambling.[33]
Connecticut’s existing agreements with the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Tribes grant them exclusive rights to certain gambling operations within the state.[34] In-flight betting would require additional negotiations to ensure compliance is continuing with these agreements.[35] On top of this, all revenue made from gambling is subject to specific tax obligations that are allocated to General Funds accounts.[36] This bill would have to face the difficulties of determining and tracking revenue throughout the flight to comply with tax laws.[37] It is unlikely the strict betting laws of Connecticut would allow gamblers to physically leave the state but still bet under Connecticut laws and guidelines.[38]
However, the recent decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo[39] could support Representative Rosario’s bill.[40] Federal judges who are in favor of less restrictive gambling laws have the power to interpret ambiguous statutory language without deferring to agencies like CPP.[41] Thus, these judges could interpret gambling statutes in a method that would approve HB 6051.[42] If this bill is approved, to ensure compliance with CCP guidelines and prerogatives, there should be limits set on the amount of time sports betters are allowed to spend gambling.[43] Additionally, monetary limits should also be put in place to ensure responsible gambling.[44] If strict limits are set to prevent gambling addictions and overconsumption, HB 6051 has the potential to bring substantial revenue to Connecticut and benefit its public schools.[45]
*Staff Writer, Jeffrey S. Moorad Sports Law Journal, J.D. Candidate, May 2026, Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law
[1] See Sean Chaffin, Connecticut Bill Would Legalize In-Flight Sports Betting, Card Player (Feb. 12, 2025), https://www.cardplayer.com/poker-news/29812-connecticut-bill-would-legalize-in-flight-sports-betting (setting scene of what typical flight looks like).
[2] See id. (introducing unprecedented bill that, if passed, would allow sports betting as in-flight entertainment option).
[3] See H.B. 6051, Gen. Assemb., Reg. Sess. 2024–25 (Conn. 2025) (advocating for bill that would authorize in-flight sports wagering on scheduled flights originating or terminating in Connecticut).
[4] See id. (explaining that HB 6051 takes advantage of emerging sports betting market in Connecticut, which would, in turn, increase Connecticut’s revenue).
[5] See Nick Beare, CT Sports Betting- Best Connecticut Betting Apps for 2025, Legal Sports Rep. (Feb. 5, 2025), https://www.legalsportsreport.com/ct/ (highlighting already profitable market of sports betting in Connecticut).
[6] See Analyzing Connecticut Sports Betting Revenue Insights of 2025, RG (Feb. 18, 2025, 12:00 PM), https://rg.org/statistics/us/connecticut (presenting relatively new market of sports betting that still has room to expand).
[7] See Bridgette Bjorlo, Connecticut Lawmaker First in Country to Introduce In-Flight Sports Gambling Bill, Fox 61 (Feb. 10, 2025, 12:33 AM), https://www.fox61.com/article/news/local/ct-lawmaker-first-in-country-to-introduce-in-flight-sports-gambling-bill/520-9836ebfd-30a3-4a76-ad85-8cf345d79a3e#:~:text=As%20the%20law%20currently%20stands,sports%20gambling%20in%20the%20state (explaining that Connecticut could generate even more revenue by allowing gambling on planes).
[8] See id. (discussing new partnership that could result in other states introducing in-flight gambling).
[9] See id. (concluding in-flight sports betting would benefit Connecticut).
[10] See Jordan Nathaniel Fenster, Could Sports Gambling on Planes Soon be a Thing? Here’s What is Being Worked on, CT Insider (Feb 4. 2025), https://www.ctinsider.com/connecticut/article/ct-delta-draftkings-blumenthal-gambling-flight-20057999.php (observing that legislature is complying with current laws in order to streamline passage of bill).
[11] See id. (demonstrating additional benefits of bill).
[12] See id. (noting that amount of revenue generated is number one motivation behind introduction of bill).
[13] See H.B. 6051, Gen. Assemb., Reg. Sess. 2024–25 (Conn. 2025) (indicating HB 6051’s rudimentary proposal is not yet comprehensive, as there is no additional information about implementation of HB 6051).
[14] See Bjorlo, supra note 7 (explaining that gambling is highly risky and addicting activity).
[15] See Press Release, Paul D. Tonko, Tonko, Blumenthal Introduce Sports Betting Bill Centering Public Health Approach (Sept. 13, 2024), https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4216 (explaining that SAFE Bet Act looks to protect people from gambling while HB 6051 would further promote sports gambling).
[16] See Bjorlo, supra note 7 (discussing that while Connecticut would like to generate revenue from gambling, it also has substantial interest in ensuring people do not become addicted to gambling).
[17] See Fenster, supra note 10 (introducing first hurdle to bill that outlaws betting on planes).
[18] See id. (suggesting Trump Administration would be in favor of less restrictive gambling laws).
[19] See id. (concluding that current law prohibiting gambling likely will be overturned in near future).
[20] See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 12-850 (demonstrating current legal issue that contradicts proposed legislation).
[21] See Christina de Borja, The Legal Landscape of Sports Betting: Past, Present, & Future, Colum. J. L. & Arts (Nov. 11, 2023), https://journals.library.columbia.edu/index.php/lawandarts/announcement/view/664 (recounting that each state has unique and distinct gambling laws which would activate).
[22] See Brett Curtis, New Push for Legal Sports Betting in Texas 2025, Esports Insider (Feb. 17, 2025), https://esportsinsider.com/2025/02/new-push-for-legal-sports-betting-in-texas-2025#:~:text=He%20added%3A%20“They%20want%20the,sports%20team%20has%20supported%20legalization (highlighting strict sports betting rules that indicate if Texans want to sports bet, they must travel to neighboring state).
[23] See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 12-850 (emphasizing uniqueness of Connecticut law and differentiating sports betting laws that each state has enacted).
[24] See id. (explaining additional challenge that would halt passing of bill).
[25] See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 12-86 (2024) (presenting additional information that must be incorporated into HB 6051 to address current challenges regarding feasibility and enforceability).
[26] See id. (indicating it is unlikely that HB 6051 will be passed into law).
[27] See Fenster, supra note 10 (ruling that current federal laws prohibit gambling on planes).
[28] See id. (implying that strict laws on boundaries are purposeful to require Connecticut gamblers to be present in state).
[29] See Frank A. Bruno & Zachary B. Roth, Connecticut Enacts Legislation Authorizing Retailing and Online Sports Betting, Online Casino Gambling, and DFS, Prepares for October 7 Launch, White & Williams LLP (May 27, 2021), https://www.whiteandwilliams.com/resources-alerts-Connecticut-Legislature-Passes-Bill-Legalizing-Retail-and-Online-Sports-Betting-Online-Casino-Gaming-and-DFS (introducing agency that oversees gambling in Connecticut). The CCP protects consumers from gambling addictions and overspending. See id. (indicating importance of boundaries and limits for gambling and betting-related activities).
[30] See Mark Pazniokas, Before Sports Betting Opens, Connecticut Addresses Problem Gambling, CT Mirror (Sept. 23, 2021, 3:28 PM), https://ctmirror.org/2021/09/23/before-sports-betting-opens-connecticut-addresses-problem-gambling/ (requiring periodic prompts on screen to show gamblers how much time users have spent online, and, for users exceeding $2,500 in bets, a prompt communicating and tallying amount of total bets gambler has placed).
[31] See Press Release, Ned Lamont, Governor Lamont Announces Online Sports Wagering, iCasinos Opens Tuesday to All Adults 21 and Older in Connecticut (Oct. 18, 2021), https://portal.ct.gov/governor/news/press-releases/2021/10-2021/governor-lamont-announces-online-sports-wagering-icasino-opens-tuesday?language=en_US (emphasizing safety measures to ensure responsible gambling).
[32] See id. (implying that CCP would not want to allow gambling in limited, confined spaces where one could easily get addicted).
[33] See Connecticut Lawmaker Pushes to Legalize Sports Betting on Flights, Yogonet (Feb. 10, 2023), https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/02/10/94675-connecticut-lawmaker-pushes-to-legalize-sports-betting-on-flights (highlighting strong argument against in-flight betting, as this initiative would undermine protective measures implemented by CCP’s to prevent gambling addictions and habits).
[34] See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 12-851(2024) (considering additional party, Native American tribes, who would be impacted by the implementation of this bill).
[35] See H.B. 6051, Gen. Assemb., Reg. Sess. 2024–25 (Conn. 2025) (introducing new layer of hurdles legislatures would have to jump).
[36] See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 12-867 (implying tax revenue may be difficult to monitor, especially as plane moves through different states).
[37] See id. (emphasizing complex tax laws and policies that make proposed legislation even more unlikely to pass).
[38] See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 12-863 (predicting that stringent laws in Connecticut will bar allowance of sports betting).
[39] Loper Bright Enters. v. Raimondo, 603 U.S. 369 (2024).
[40] See id. at 479 (introducing recent decision that ruled federal courts do not have to defer to permissible agencies to interpret ambiguous statutory language).
[41] See Rich Gold, Lynn E. Calins, Christine N. Walz, Christopher R. Nolan, Anita M. Mosner, Kwamina Thomas Williford, Johnny P. ElHachem, Charles R. Naftalin, Bill LeBeau, Paul G. Lannon, Brian C. Bunger, Stephen J. Humes, Joshua David Odintz, Timothy Taylor, Anthony E. DiResta, John F. Wood, Dimitrios J. Karakitsos, Jim Noe, James T. Meggesto, Rafe Petersen, Nancy Anderson, Zachary Lundgren & Miranda A. Franco, What’s Next for the Regulatory Landscape Post-Chevron?, Holland & Knight (July 2, 2024), https://www.hklaw.com/en/insights/publications/2024/07/whats-next-for-the-regulatory-landscape-post-chevron (implying that, because federal consumer protection agencies have power to rule whether communications and advertisements are deceptive and unfair, these agencies could rule in-flight gambling as not deceptive, unfair, or abusive).
[42] See id. (holding that, because federal protection agencies can create substantive policies that interpret laws and regulations, it is possible that Loper Bright Enterprises decision will give federal judges final say in whether regulations are safe and fair).
[43] See Niklas Hopfgartner, Michael Auer, Tiago Santos, Denis Helic & Mark D. Griffiths, Cooling Off and the Effects of Mandatory Breaks in Online Gambling: A Large-Scale Real-World Study, Int’l J. Mental Health & Addiction 2438, 2439 (Jan. 17, 2023) (ruling that time limits to gambling are particularly important, as long periods of gambling without interruption can induce psychological rewarding states that reinforce problematic gambling behavior).
[44] See Marie-Claire Flores-Pajot, Sara Atif, Magali Dufour, Natacha Brunelle, Shawn R Currie, David C Hodgins, Louise Nadeau & Matthew M Young, Gambling Self-Control Strategies: A Qualitative Analysis, Int’l J. Env’t Rsch. & Pub. Health 1, 3 (Jan. 12, 2021) (finding that restricting monetary access during gambling is effective strategy to limit money spent during gambling sessions).
[45] See id. (supporting notion that implementing limitations can create effective and safe ways to gamble).
