A newly introduced bill would require NY online sportsbooks to implement “fair play” policies for bettors when unforeseen circumstances impact wagers.
Assembly Bill A11414, introduced by Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn Wright and referred to the Assembly Racing and Wagering Committee on May 15, would amend the state’s racing, pari-mutuel wagering and breeding law.
The legislation directs the New York State Gaming Commission to establish regulations surrounding “fair play” policies for operators, particularly in situations where a player suffers an injury early in a season and does not return.
Under the proposal, all licensed operators offering sports wagering in New York would have to “adopt comprehensive house rules and implement a fair play policy governing sports wagering transactions.”
Bill outlines refund and adjustment standards
The bill states that fair play policies would need to establish categories of wagers eligible for “adjustment, refund or voiding” when events outside the bettor’s control compromise the outcome of a wager.
According to the bill language, the policy must apply “without requiring action by an authorized sports bettor where reasonably practicable.” It also says operators must apply the policy “consistently and in a nondiscriminatory manner.”
The legislation further requires operators to clearly disclose fair play policy terms before bets are placed and make the rules easily accessible on websites and mobile apps.
Operators already offer some forms of player protection promotions, such as same-game parlay insurance or early payout bonuses. However, those offerings are voluntary NY sportsbook bonuses rather than statewide regulatory requirements.
If passed, the measure could standardize how handle disrupted wagers across the state’s legal wagering market.
These proposals would not be eligible for the upcoming World Cup. PlayNY lays out how the odds are displayed for the biggest tournament in the world.
Consumer protection focus continues in New York
The proposal arrives as New York lawmakers continue exploring additional consumer protection measures tied to the state’s sports betting industry.
New York launched mobile sports wagering in January 2022 and has since become the nation’s largest legal sports wagering market by handle. Lawmakers have even proposed legislation to expand the sports wagering market.
The state has also seen legislation targeting advertising standards, deposit limits and responsible gambling measures in recent legislative sessions.
A11414 remains in committee and has not yet received a hearing date.
