A private member's bill that would legalize single-game sports betting in Canada has passed third reading on Parliament Hill.

Bill C-290 would allow gamblers to place bets on just one sporting event, which is currently prohibited under the Criminal Code.

In Ontario, for example, gamblers must bet on at least three games each time they play the Proline sports lottery.

The bill was introduced by Windsor NDP MP Joe Comartin in an effort to curb illegal sports betting and create more jobs in the gaming industry.

If the bill is approved by the Senate, the new legislation would open doors for the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation to create "sports books" in casinos across the province.

Betting on the outcome of a single sports game is prohibited across North America, except in Nevada, where the option is popular – and profitable – in Las Vegas casinos.