Wisconsin Senate to decide future of online sports betting, NIL deals with floor session expected to finish this week

This week, the Wisconsin state Senate will hold what is expected to be its final regular floor session of the year. Behind the scenes, legislative leaders are counting votes as they attempt to build support for their bills, hoping to get them to the floor. One of the key proposals being closely watched is a push to legalize online sports betting in Wisconsin. The bill would allow the state's 11 federally recognized tribes to offer mobile wagering to those physically present in the state. However, not all Senate Republicans support the measure, with some believing it creates an unfair government monopoly. Another bill facing hurdles is one that would create statewide regulations for name, image and likeness (NIL) deals for student athletes. The bill has already passed the state Assembly, but still needs approval from the Senate. The state legislature is also grappling with the issue of property tax relief, with Republican leaders and the Democratic governor at odds over the best approach. It's possible lawmakers may have to return to Madison in April to sort out a deal on this issue.