Student opinions on the legalization of sports betting in Louisiana

Sports betting is legal in the state of Mississippi, and Louisiana is one of the handful of states in the United States of America that does not legalize sports betting.

Sports betting, match fixing or rigging is an increasing phenomenon and arguably a huge problem, due to the rise of vast, illegal online markets. The practice has a tendency to take advantage of players and referees who are living under poor wages.

Dylan Loru, an allied health major, said that sports betting should be illegal, as it ruins the ethics of the sport.

“I don’t think sports betting should be legal in Louisiana because I believe that it causes difficulties between people and the morality of the sport itself,” Loru said. “It ruins people’s careers. Casinos are pretty much your own decision, where in sports some athletes might do [match fixing] because they are in desperate need of money.”

Sophomore student and former baseball player Kyle Thibodaux said he does not think match fixing should stop sports betting from being legalized, as sports are a form of entertainment.

“If someone plays sports and I’m betting on them, then it’s me betting on sports,” Thibodaux said. “Betting is their choice, so if they do it, they do it. I don’t see harm in betting on sports.”

According to News Star, Louisiana Senator Danny Martiny thinks Louisiana is going to lose money to Mississippi’s acceptance of sports betting, since people are willing to travel the distance.

This realization may force the Louisiana state government to ensure sports gambling is legalized in the state.

Senior tennis player Stephanie Barnett said she agrees with Senator Martiny.

“I think [losing money] is a good enough reason to legalize sports betting,” Barnett said. “If it brings in money for your state, I think you should consider the possibilities of legalizing it in Louisiana.”

Loru said money should not be the main factor in the legalization of sports betting.

“I mean, I don’t think [losing money] is a valid enough reason. It still ruins the sport,” Loru said. Just because another state does it, doesn’t mean that we have to lower our standards toward sport.”

As sports like football and, eventually, basketball begin, the rally for sports betting in Louisiana may grow louder, and it may be some time before the Louisiana state government makes a decision.