MP Waugh statement on passage of single sports betting bill in the Senate

June 22, 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ottawa, ON – Kevin Waugh, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon—Grasswood, issued the following statement on his Private Member’s Bill, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, passing the Senate:

“The passage of my Private Member’s Bill to legalize single-event sports betting in the Senate is a victory for Canadian sport, sport fans, and businesses. For too long, black market bookmakers and offshore websites have had a monopoly on single-event betting. It’s time that Canadians take back this massive market.

“I want to thank my colleague Senator David Wells for his excellent work in ushering this legislation quickly through the Senate and the countless Canadians who have shown their support for this bill.

“Following this legislation becoming law, provincial governments will be responsible for implementing regulations and wagering operators in their jurisdictions. I call on provincial governments to act as quickly as possible to get the necessary regulations and licenses in place so that all Canadians can begin to place their wagers.

“This bill is a win for Canadian taxpayers, workers, and sports fans. Canada’s Conservatives will continue to put forward common-sense bills that create economic opportunities and help Canadians.”