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To address what it views as “problem gambling,” the New York State Assembly has passed a package of bills that add new provisions for sports betting operators in the state.
The seven-bill package, announced by Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, would establish new requirements for legal sportsbooks and name March “Problem Gambling Awareness Month.”
Strengthening NY sportsbook safeguards
Key items in the legislation include requirements for gambling platforms to develop “know your customer” protocols, strengthen identity verification, and allow individuals to submit self-exclusion request forms electronically.
Current law dictates that these forms, which ban the submitter from casinos or online sports betting platforms, must be submitted in person to the New York State Gaming Commission.
Assemblymember Phil Steck also introduced a bill to the package that would require commercial health insurance to cover outpatient treatment for problem gambling.
“New York has seen rapid growth in gambling, particularly with the expansion of mobile sports wagering, and with that growth comes a responsibility to protect the public and support those who may be struggling,” Steck said in a CNYhomepage news article.
“Too many people who want help cannot access care when it is not consistently covered by insurance. As a result, many are forced to pay out-of-pocket or go without treatment altogether.”
Modernizing consumer protections
Assemblymember Rebecca Kassay, representing New York’s 4th District, wants to provide bettors with data on their monthly deposits and withdrawals, as well as win-loss records. Her legislation would require platforms to send monthly statements to users, a tool she believes will help curb addiction.
“Equipping New Yorkers with key data surrounding gaming activity and behavior bolsters informed participation and is critical in reducing problem gambling in our communities,” Kassay said.
“This bill modernizes consumer protections to ensure that mobile sports betting platforms operate responsibly while prioritizing the well-being of our residents.”
The responsible gambling package now heads to the New York State Senate for consideration. If it clears the chamber, it will head to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk for her signature.
