Vermont reports increased sports betting revenue in second legal year

Vermont’s sports betting market continued its strong performance in 2025, generating $7,252,813 in state revenue - an increase from $6,346,073 in its inaugural year, according to data released by the Department of Liquor and Lottery. The total amount wagered, or the "handle", also saw a significant uptick, climbing to $235,089,458 compared to $198,754,297 in 2024.

Joshua Sumner, Vermont’s director of sports wagering, attributed the year-over-year growth to the natural progression of a developing market. "That’s kind of going as expected as far as a maturing market", he said. Sumner noted that the market is expected to follow its growth trajectory as it continues to mature. "This market is projected to continue to mature, and along with that, it’s projected to continue to grow as far as handle", he added.

Concerns About Problem Gambling

As more Vermonters place bets, the Vermont Department of Mental Health has reported an increase in the use of its problem gambling resources, including the state’s hotline and website. Dr. Kelley Klein, the department’s medical director, viewed this rise as a positive development in raising awareness. "We have definitely seen an increase in utilization, and I think this is a good sign that people are understanding that there are resources available to them", she said.

Divided Opinions in the Legislature

Despite the increased revenue, some lawmakers remain skeptical about the broader social impact of legalized sports betting. Representative Tom Stevens, D-Washington-Chittenden, expressed his reservations, stating, "It’s just hard to say that we can do this and raise money and that’s a positive. We all like to see lower taxes elsewhere, but gambling for me has always been a tax on people who are a little more desperate."

Oversight and Regulation

State officials emphasized their commitment to ensuring a safe and responsible sports betting market. "We’re really working diligently together to make sure that we have a safe and responsible marketplace for sports wagering in Vermont", Sumner said.

The Vermont Attorney General’s Office confirmed that the state has not faced any enforcement challenges with the three sports wagering operators contracted to run the program. "The Attorney General’s Office continues to provide general counsel assistance to the Department of Liquor and Lottery (DLL) as it administers the sports wagering program. There have been no contract enforcement actions brought by the State against any of the three contracted sports wagering operators in Vermont", the office said in a statement.

As Vermont’s sports betting industry enters its third year, state officials remain focused on monitoring the market and ensuring that safeguards are in place to promote responsible gambling while supporting further growth.

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