A lawmaker pushing the newest Kentucky sports betting bill says it is a good bet to pass this year, but it still faces long odds.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled last year that states could legalize sports betting, and so far seven states have done it.

Rep. Adam Koenig argues Kentucky should not be late to the game. He has sponsored House Bill 175 to legalize sports betting, online poker and fantasy sports.

Koenig testified about the bill during a meeting of the House Committee on Licensing, Occupations, and Administrative Regulations, which he chairs.

“You can bet on sports on this right now illegally,” Koenig told fellow lawmakers as he help up his smart phone.

The Republican from Erlanger said it is time to bring the issue out of the shadows.

More about the Kentucky sports betting bill at WDRB