Washington Tribes Cleared to Offer In-State College Betting
OLYMPIA, Washington - March 14, 2026
Washington has approved a major update to its tribal-only sports betting system, clearing the way for wagers on in-state college teams at tribal casinos.
New rules for college team wagering
Under the new law, tribal casinos in Washington may offer bets on games involving in-state college programs, including public and private universities.All wagers must still be placed in person at tribal casinos, consistent with the state's long-standing tribal-exclusive sports betting model.
The change is designed to move existing, unregulated betting on local college teams into a monitored environment under tribal and state oversight.
Player prop bets remain prohibited
While team-based wagering on in-state colleges is now permitted, the law maintains a strict ban on individual player prop bets.Sportsbooks at tribal casinos may not offer wagers tied to the performance of specific student-athletes or in-game player propositions.
Lawmakers and tribal leaders have framed this restriction as a key safeguard to reduce harassment, manipulation, and pressure on student-athletes.
$3,000 Casino Welcome Bonus!Tribal-exclusive model stays in place
Washington remains a tribal-exclusive sports betting state. Commercial sportsbooks and statewide mobile betting are still not allowed.All legal sports wagers, including the newly authorized in-state college bets, must be placed on tribal lands at licensed tribal casinos.
Tribal gaming regulators will continue to oversee operations, with any necessary compact updates and regulatory approvals handled on a tribe-by-tribe basis.
Impact on bettors and tribal communities
For Washington bettors, the change means they can now legally back their home-state college teams at tribal sportsbooks, rather than turning to offshore or illegal markets.
For tribes, expanded sports wagering is expected to strengthen casino offerings, support jobs, and generate additional revenue that can be reinvested in tribal programs and services.
