Madam Speaker, I rise in the House today to bring attention to an important policy matter that greatly affects my riding: single game sports betting.
In 2008, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to legalize this activity in all 50 states. Consequently, single game sports betting has been legalized in cross-border states such as New York, Michigan and Montana. Meanwhile, this activity remains illegal in Canada. As the North American gaming and entertainment industry changes before our eyes, Canadian casinos like those in Niagara Falls are disadvantaged and struggling to compete in this new environment.
Single game sports betting is hugely popular and has the potential to generate billions for our economy through new job creation, attracting tourism and investment, and future industry growth. However, as long as it remains illegal, these opportunities will be lost to our American competition.
I look forward to working with all my colleagues in all parties in Parliament to bring attention this issue and to advocate change by supporting efforts to legalize single game sports betting in Canada.