The nation’s most prominent sports betting market is ramping up its efforts regarding responsible gambling.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed into law S1550/A1118 on Oct. 1, mandating that all gambling and NY sports betting advertisements include warnings about the potentially harmful and addictive effects of gambling.
Bill aims to protect New Yorkers, promote safe gambling
The state’s efforts to promote responsible gambling in New York have continued to increase since its first mobile sportsbooks launched in January 2022. Since that time, lawmakers have passed several laws focusing on curbing deceptive promotional tactics, such as terms like “risk-free” in situations that weren’t truly risk-free.
It also passed legislation confirming that mobile sports betting advertisements were subject to the same regulations as all other gaming-related advertisements, a law that S1550/A1118 build on. The previous law required all gambling advertisements to:
- Include problem gambling warnings
- Clearly and conspicuously post a problem gambling hotline number
These stipulations remain in place in addition to the new bill’s requirements.
Assembly Bill A1118 and Senate Bill S1550 elevate the state’s investment into responsible gambling resources while requiring operators to do the same with their advertising.
“Protecting New Yorkers from the dangerous and addictive effects of problem gambling and sports betting is vitally important for the prosperity of our great State,” Hochul said in a press release.
“I want New Yorkers to be able to safely enjoy the activities they love, while proceeding with caution when necessary. I’m confident that with the signing of this new bill, New Yorkers will have easier access to the safety resources they need to better protect themselves from the grips of addiction.”
Support from all sides for signed legislation
Several influential New Yorkers echoed their support of Gov. Hochul signing new gambling legislation, including Assemblyman Clyde Vanel. Vanel co-authored A1118 and authored a separate bill, A10658, currently in the Assembly’s Racing and Wagering Committee.
“We are excited that the Governor recognizes this bill as an important step forward in protecting New Yorkers that may be vulnerable to a gambling addiction,” Vanel said.
“With this new law, we are strengthening the protection of New Yorkers across our State. These new changes to the gambling advertisements law will help to promote responsible gaming practices and provide support for those who need it.”
Sen. Leroy Comrie called it “essential” that users understand the risks associated with gambling and know the resources available to help them if needed. Dr. Chinazo Cunningham , commissioner of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports, expressed a similar feeling, highlighting the state’s need to improve its efforts as New Yorkers’ access to gambling continues to increase.
Lastly, New York State Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer said the commission is “encouraged that this common-sense measure has been codified into state law.” He added, “By signing this bill, Governor Hochul continues to deliver smart and responsible gaming policies that help support our State.”
Responsible gambling a major focus for online casinos
The recent increase in online gambling options, including sports betting, lottery and social casinos in New York, has quickly come into focus in recent years. As a result, the state continues to find new ways to ensure players understand the risks associated with gambling.
Much of that involves addressing the cultural stigmas and concerns related to problem gambling and gambling addictions. These issues often get brushed aside, and those who suffer face additional pressure to bring their problems to light.
This proves even more paramount when discussing New York online casinos. Online gaming can enable at-risk players even more, not requiring any social commitment while engaging in potentially destructive behaviors. Sen. Joseph Addabbo said in 2022 that gambling addiction was the largest hurdle to overcome in passing iGaming legislation.
As such, actively ramping up responsible gambling efforts remains the only solution. It’s the best way to educate players on how to gamble safely, recognize at-risk behaviors, normalize asking for help and provide treatment to those who need it the most.
