Illustration depicting the recent surge in sports betting in Rhode Island, highlighting the vibrant environment of betting.
In April 2025, Rhode Island reported a remarkable 90% increase in sports and iGaming wagers, totaling $163.3 million. This surge marks the state’s second-best month and comes amid considerations for expanding sports betting vendors. Despite past declines in revenue, neighboring states have seen significant figures in gaming, raising both excitement and concerns regarding gambling issues. Proposed legislative changes may alter the current monopoly held by a single betting app, aiming at creating more options for bettors while addressing potential gambling problems.
In April 2025, Rhode Island reported a striking 90% surge in sports and iGaming wagers, totaling $163.3 million. This marks the second-best month for the state, trailing only behind the previous month, March 2025, which had also seen significant wagering activity. This surge comes after a period characterized by declining sports betting revenue in Rhode Island, raising both enthusiasm and concerns among stakeholders.
The increase in Rhode Island’s wagers is part of a broader trend seen in the gaming industry, particularly in adjacent states. For instance, Michigan’s sports and iGaming revenue reached $290 million in April, while Pennsylvania’s gambling revenue approached $560 million. Ontario experienced a 26% surge in wagers, and Delaware posted iGaming wagers exceeding $250 million. Additionally, Connecticut’s bets amounted to $1.8 billion during the same period. New Jersey also recorded a modest 5% increase in gambling revenue.
Rhode Island’s sports betting market currently operates under a monopoly established through the Sportsbook RI app, which is managed by International Game Technology (IGT) PLC. The exclusivity of this platform means that Rhode Island is one of only four states that rely on a single betting app. This situation has led to legislative efforts aimed at broadening the number of sports betting vendors. Proposed changes, sponsored by Senators Frank Ciccone and Representatives Matthew Dawson, aim to introduce at least five vendors by July 1, 2026.
Currently, IGT’s contract to operate the Sportsbook RI app runs through November 2026. However, proposed legislative changes could alter the state’s gaming framework before that deadline. The existing app has received mixed reviews, attaining a 4.4-star rating on Apple’s App Store and a 4.2 on Google Play. Still, many users have voiced dissatisfaction regarding the app’s functionality and the limitations in betting options.
Despite the recent surge in April 2025, Rhode Island’s sports betting revenue has not been without its struggles. Between fiscal years 2023 and 2024, the revenue dropped by 24%, from $509.5 million to $458.8 million. Compounding the challenges faced by the industry is the state’s relatively high 51% tax rate on revenues from sports wagers, one of the highest rates in the United States.
As discussions about expanding the number of sports betting vendors continue, concerns have been raised about the potential increase in gambling problems among residents. Legislative proposals have yet to address how to mitigate potential issues related to problem gambling as access expands. Rhode Island residents who may be facing gambling issues can reach out to the Problem Gambling Services for support at any time.
As Rhode Island navigates its evolving sports betting landscape, the significant increases in wagers alongside the potential expansion of vendors illustrate both the opportunities and challenges ahead. Ongoing legislative discussions will be crucial in shaping the state’s response to industry demands and public concerns about gambling addiction.
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