Senate panel OKS sports betting amendment

A proposed constitutional amendment legalizing sports betting in Georgia has cleared a state Senate committee.

Senate Resolution 140, subject to a statewide referendum next year, would allow online sports betting under the supervision of the Georgia Lottery Corp. and a newly created gaming commission.

Half of the state’s share of the proceeds from sports betting would go need-based scholarships for students to attend any of

Georgia’s public or private colleges and universities as well as technical colleges.

Georgia’s HOPE Scholarships program was need based in its early years after voters approved creation of the Georgia Lottery in 1992 but was soon changed to a merit-based program.

One-quarter of the state’s share of sports betting revenue would be dedicated to health care — including mental health care — economic development and the “reduction of poverty” in low-income areas.

Another 15% would go to public health and educational programs for the prevention and treatment of addictive gambling.

Five percent would be used to solicit, promote, sponsor and host major sporting events in Georgia. The final 5% would benefit “innovational educational programs and services.”

A spokesman for the Georgia Chamber of Commerce spoke out in support of the constitutional amendment Thursday, Feb. 23, during a hearing held by the Senate Regulated Industries Committee.

“This is the first step in the creation of enhanced economic development and educational opportunities through a robust wagering ecosystem,” said David Raynor, the chamber’s public affairs officer.