Wisconsin Weighs Legalizing Online Sports Betting

Governor Evers and UW Oshkosh students share views on potential new law

Mar. 19, 2026 at 12:22am

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A new bill that would legalize online sports betting statewide in Wisconsin is heading to Governor Tony Evers' desk after passing the state senate. While some tribes support the change, which would allow people to place bets from anywhere in the state as long as the app is connected to a computer server on tribal-owned casino grounds, Evers says not all tribes are on board. The bill has also caught the attention of UW Oshkosh students, with some expressing interest in sports gambling but others raising concerns about increased accessibility and addiction risks.

Why it matters

The legalization of online sports betting in Wisconsin could have significant implications, both economic and social. Proponents argue it would generate new revenue, but critics warn of the potential for increased problem gambling, especially among young people. The governor's stance on tribal support will be crucial in determining whether the bill becomes law.

The details

The new bill would allow people to place sports bets from anywhere within Wisconsin, as long as the betting app is connected to a computer server on tribal-owned casino grounds. Many tribes have come out in favor of the bill, but Governor Evers says not all are on board, and that's a problem he wants to resolve before deciding whether to sign the legislation into law.

  • The state senate passed the sports betting bill this week in a 21-12 vote.
  • Governor Evers made an appearance at UW Oshkosh on Wednesday to discuss the issue.

The players

Tony Evers

The governor of Wisconsin, who is weighing whether to sign the sports betting bill into law.

Dylan Mielke

A 5th year senior at UW Oshkosh who is interested in sports gambling and plans to visit a casino this weekend.

John Culver

A junior at UW Oshkosh who is concerned about the potential for increased gambling addiction if online sports betting is legalized.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know. My goal always right from the beginning when this conversation happens is to make sure that all the tribes are together on this.”

— Tony Evers, Governor of Wisconsin

“I'm actually just getting into sports gambling, I have been doing it with my roommates. Going to the casino this weekend actually. So that is something I'm very interested in.”

— Dylan Mielke, 5th year senior, UW Oshkosh

“So just making it more accessible for people could be a potential thing. Cause you know gambling is an addiction. So I think there would be drawbacks to accessibly, and would encourage more people to do it.”

— John Culver, Junior, UW Oshkosh

What’s next

Governor Evers will decide whether to sign the sports betting bill into law after ensuring all tribes in Wisconsin are on board with the legislation.

The takeaway

The debate over legalizing online sports betting in Wisconsin highlights the complex balance between economic opportunity and public health concerns. As the governor weighs the decision, the perspectives of tribal leaders, students, and anti-gambling advocates will all factor into the outcome.