SANTA ANA PUEBLO, N.M. (AP) — A tribal casino in New Mexico says it will be the first in the state to offer sports betting following a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court earlier this year that cleared the way for all 50 states to offer legal sports betting.
The sportsbook at Santa Ana Star Casino is scheduled to open Tuesday. The program will be managed by Nevada-based operator USBookmaking.
Casino CEO John Cirrincione said Wednesday the interest in sports betting has increased exponentially in recent years.
He expects the net profit margin to be slim since the house has a very small advantage and the operation is labor intensive. He says the intent is to add another amenity for patrons.
Existing tribal gaming compacts don't specifically address sports betting. Such wagering falls under another category, meaning casinos can move ahead without regulatory changes.