A Billings-based investment group is suing the state for their right to be granted a sports wagering license.
Arete Group alleges they should be issued a sports wagering license by Montana Lottery as outlined in House Bill 7-25 and as passed by the 2019 Montana legislature.
Last year, the Lottery Commission added a rule requiring an "appropriate alcoholic beverage license" in order to hold sports betting.
During legislative hearings on House Bill 7-25, lawmakers heard testimony requesting sports wagering be limited to taverns.
Legislators amended the bill to require a "gambling operator license" to limit locations with gambling but not require an alcohol license.
Arete Group has already been granted a gambling operator license by the state and are seeking an injunction that would stop the lottery from issuing sports wagering licenses until the matter is resolved
