Hochul Signs New Law Mandating Warnings on Sports Betting Ads in N.Y.
In a significant step toward promoting responsible gambling, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed new legislation requiring all mobile gambling and sports betting advertisements to include clear warnings about the risks of addiction. The bill, officially designated as S1550/A1118, aims to raise public awareness of problem gambling and ensure that bettors have access to support resources.
Governor Hochul highlighted the importance of this law by stating, “Protecting New Yorkers from the dangerous and addictive effects of problem gambling is vitally important for the prosperity of our great state.” She emphasized the balance between enjoying gambling as a form of entertainment and remaining vigilant about its potential dangers.
The newly passed legislation applies to all forms of gambling ads, expanding on earlier laws that only mandated the inclusion of a problem gambling hotline number. Now, advertisements must also contain detailed warnings that clearly outline the potential harms associated with gambling addiction. This law mirrors other states, such as New Jersey, which have strengthened their gambling ad regulations in recent years.
The bill received strong backing from lawmakers such as Senator Leroy Comrie and Assemblymember Clyde Vanel, both of whom stressed the importance of protecting vulnerable New Yorkers from the potential harms of mobile sports betting. Comrie expressed gratitude to Hochul, stating that while the revenue generated from gambling is important, ensuring the public is well-informed about the risks is equally vital.
With the continued rise of online sports betting in New York, the state remains the largest market in the U.S., collecting nearly $862 million in tax revenue from wagers in 2023. However, addiction experts have voiced growing concerns over the accessibility of mobile gambling, which could make it easier for individuals to engage in harmful betting behavior.
The legislation also mandates collaboration between the New York State Gaming Commission and the Office of Addiction Services and Supports to ensure effective implementation of the warnings, giving New Yorkers access to the necessary tools to gamble responsibly.
By signing this bill into law, Hochul aims to strike a balance between the flourishing gambling industry and the protection of New Yorkers, making the state a leader in responsible gambling legislation.
This move also paves the way for future expansions in the gaming industry, with discussions about legalizing online casinos possibly being next on the horizon. If those efforts succeed, the same warnings and protective measures would be applied to online gambling ads, further strengthening the state’s commitment to responsible gaming.
This law is a critical part of New York’s efforts to address the societal costs associated with gambling, ensuring that the state continues to benefit from the industry’s revenue while safeguarding its citizens’ well-being.
