
If bettors see bigger banners and more pop-up advisories when they log onto New York sports betting apps, there’s a reason behind it. With New York problem gambling in mind, the state is taking action.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed S1550/A1118 on Tuesday, describing the new law as “legislation to fight the addictive effects of problem gambling.”
Gambling ads already had to “clearly and conspicuously” include New York State’s confidential 1-877-8-HOPENY hotline. S1550/A1118 underscores that mobile and sports betting ads are held to the same responsible gaming standards as other gambling-related advertisements.
“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. “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.”
New York’s Next Step to Address Problem Gambling
Chair Brian O’Dwyer notes that the New York State Gaming Commission already requires problem gambling messages in sports betting ads.
“We are encouraged that this common-sense measure has been codified into state law,” he said. “By signing this bill, Governor Hochul continues to deliver smart and responsible gaming policies that help support our state.”
The new law also allows O’Dwyer’s commission to work with the Commissioner of Addiction Services and Supports. The groups will audit ads for the presence of New York’s problem gambling hotline number.
United States’ Responsible Gaming Spending Up 72% Since 2017
New York’s advertising regulations come at the peak of the sports betting calendar. The legislation also punctuates Responsible Gaming Education Month, which took place in September.
As part of the awareness campaign, the American Gaming Association commissioned a study to track the industry’s investment in responsible gaming (RG). Among its findings, the US gaming industry spent $471.8 million on 2023 RG initiatives — up 72% from approximately $275 million in 2017, including:
- $135.4 million in gaming customer assistance.
- $122.4 million in RG program development and maintenance.
- $107.7 million in consumer-facing RG education.
- $31.8 million in responsible gaming research and contributions to other non-profit RG organizations.
- $26.1 million in problem gambling supportive services.
The AGA study suggests RG spending has grown faster than gaming revenue over the past seven years. Joe Maloney, the AGA’s Senior Vice President of Strategic Communications, said the increase “demonstrates the legal industry’s dedication to fostering a safe and informed gaming environment.”
“Beyond the considerable taxes gaming companies contribute to fund responsible gaming and problem gambling resources, the industry also proactively invests hundreds of millions of dollars more to ensure our customers have the tools, knowledge, and safeguards to play responsibly,” he said.