By trying too hard to control sports betting, some state governments are achieving the opposite of their goals: they are empowering black market operators, putting consumers at risk, and turning away tax revenue that could be collected from a robust legal industry.

The intentions may be good — protecting consumers, preventing addiction, keeping crime out — but when policy relies on over-taxation, outdated restrictions and monopoly control, the results are both predictable and troubling. That’s the reason why the Consumer Choice Center has recently published its 2025 U.S Sports Betting Index.

Let’s begin with a basic economic truth: When a legal market is smothered by excessive regulation and punishing tax rates, a black market inevitably fills the gap. Legal sports betting apps — where permitted — can offer consumers safe, transparent, and regulated environments.

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