Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB601

Introduced
10/29/25  
Refer
10/29/25  
Report Pass
11/13/25  
Refer
11/13/25  
Engrossed
2/19/26  
Refer
2/25/26  
Enrolled
3/25/26  
Chaptered
4/9/26  

Caption

An Act to create 945.01 (1) (h) of the statutes; Relating to: excluding certain event or sports wagers from the definition of “bet”.

Impact

If enacted, AB601 could have significant implications for how sports betting is regulated at the state level. By delineating which wagers are not classified as bets, the state could establish a more competitive landscape for sports gaming operators. This may lead to an increase in state revenue, as more businesses and bettors become engaged in a regulated environment. The bill is particularly relevant in the context of ongoing discussions about the economic impacts of legalized gambling and the regulation of emerging betting markets.

Summary

AB601 proposes to amend the current definition of 'bet' to exclude certain event or sports wagers. This change is intended to clarify the legal framework surrounding sports betting in the state, which has become increasingly popular following the legalization of sports wagers in various jurisdictions. By excluding specific types of wagers from the legal definition, the bill aims to create a more straightforward regulatory environment for those involved in the sports betting industry. This could potentially encourage more operators to enter the market, thereby increasing participation and engagement among consumers.

Contention

Discussions around AB601 could highlight issues of concern among various stakeholders, including existing regulatory bodies and traditional gaming establishments. While proponents argue that the bill simplifies and clarifies the legal framework, opponents may voice concerns regarding the potential for increased gambling addiction and regulation gaps that could arise from the exclusions proposed. Questions about the consumer protection standards and the overall social impact of expanding sports betting will likely arise as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

WI SB592

Crossfiled Excluding certain event or sports wagers from the definition of “bet”.

Previously Filed As

WI SB592

Excluding certain event or sports wagers from the definition of “bet”.

WI A09636

Limits sports wagering to wagers on the final outcome, score, or winner of a sporting event or contest.

WI S08433

Relates to wagers on certain horse racing events; authorizes agreements between a mobile sports wagering operator, mobile sports wagering licensee, or operator and an entity that possesses a license and that has the authority to conduct pari-mutuel wagering on the form of racing involved in the relevant horse racing event, involving wagers to be made solely by residents of the state of New York while located within New York, and subject to the approval of the commission.

WI A389

Establishes hotline for reporting behavior negatively affecting integrity of sporting events and excludes persons responsible from future sports wagering activities; prohibits certain sports wagering advertisements; requires independent oversight of sports wagering operations to ensure integrity.

WI SB354

Removes sports-related proposition betting from the definition of permitted sports wagers and prohibits micro-bets and proposition bets. (8/1/26) (OR DECREASE GF RV See Note)

WI S3200

Establishes hotline for reporting behavior negatively affecting integrity of sporting events and excludes persons responsible from future sports wagering activities; prohibits certain sports wagering advertisements; requires independent oversight of sports wagering operations to ensure integrity.

WI HB2570

Relating To Sports Wagering.

WI HB5142

SPORTS WAGERING DEFINITION

WI A2370

Includes electronic sports event as sports wagering; authorizes electronic sports wagering at certain locations.

WI HB1308

Relating To Sports Wagering.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.