Minnesota has officially become the first state in the United States to ban prediction markets, with Governor Tim Walz signing a law that prohibits hosting or advertising these platforms, which allow users to bet on future events ranging from sports outcomes to political elections. The law, which will take effect in August, criminalizes any form of engagement with prediction market sites and extends to services that could facilitate access to these markets, such as virtual private networks. This move is part of a broader effort by states to regulate gambling and protect public safety, as echoed by Minnesota Representative Emma Greenman, who emphasized the need for state-level regulation. The ban is expected to lead to legal challenges, as there are ongoing disputes regarding the jurisdiction of prediction markets, with over 20 lawsuits already filed across various states. Major platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket, which have gained popularity for providing access to betting in states where it is otherwise illegal, may be forced to leave Minnesota. Critics argue that the ban undermines competition and could push users to unregulated offshore markets.