Bill C-218 Passes Third Reading in House of Commons

Woodbine Entertainment, Canada’s most experienced sports betting company, congratulated the Government of Canada on passing Private Members Bill C-218 during its third reading in the House of Commons Thursday, April 22, which will now head to the Senate.

If passed, the Bill will legalize single-event sports betting in Canada.

“Congratulations to members of the House of Commons for taking another step today towards regulating sports betting in our country that will establish a new industry which has the potential to create jobs, revenue and exciting opportunities for Canadian businesses and sports fans alike,” said Jim Lawson, CEO, Woodbine Entertainment. “On behalf of the horse racing industry in Canada, I would like to thank everyone who participated in the legislative process and welcomed our support while listening to and addressing our concerns to protect the 50,000 jobs our industry supports across the country.”

Scroll to continue with content

As a result of a collaborative effort by the horse racing industry on a significant cross-party advocacy effort, PMB C-218 includes language that prohibits fixed odds betting on horse racing, ultimately protecting the industry from any unintended consequences.

“As the Bill heads to the Senate, we will continue to represent the interests of the horse racing industry while also offering our expertise in this sector,” said Lawson.