It is not only important to back winners, but one must do so when the odds accurately reflect the chance of winning. Moreover, the odds displayed by different bookmakers can vary significantly, meaning that the odds displayed by a bookmaker are not always correct. Remember, odds change as the bets come in, which means probability estimations vary with time. In nine states, there is some form of pending legislation. As of 2023, It is still fully illegal in 14 states, including California, Massachusetts, and Texas. states permission to legalize sports betting if they wish to do so.