Canada has enjoyed legalized parlay-style sports wagering for many decades, but the current restriction which prohibits wagering on a single sporting event does not reflect the modern reality for sports bettors.  With the passage of this bill, Canadians will have a legal and regulated product for wagering on the individual sporting events of their choice.

“The reality is that Canadians are wagering on sports predominantly through illegal means, either with bookies or online,” said Bill Rutsey, CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association. “This bill will enable sports wagering to occur in safe, regulated environments.”  confidant to his executive team and a true visionary for the Canadian gaming and entertainment industry.

A review of the annual reports of the Criminal Intelligence Services Canada (CISC) indicates that illegal bookmaking exists in all regions of Canada, with organized crime ultimately profiting from the revenue. While the size of the Canadian market is unknown, estimates suggest it is in excess of $10 billion annually.