In response to the rapid expansion of sports gambling across the United States, lawmakers Rep. Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) have introduced the Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet (SAFE Bet) Act. The legislation aims to set minimum federal standards for sports betting operators and address the public health challenges linked to the growing popularity of legal sports wagering.
Sports betting has surged since the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision that overturned the federal ban on the practice. Today, 38 states have legalized it, resulting in an $11 billion industry in 2023, a 44% increase from the previous year. States have reaped billions in tax revenue, but concerns over the impact of aggressive marketing, promotions, and gambling addiction are mounting.
Rep. Tonko emphasized the pervasive presence of gambling advertisements, noting that promotions can now be found across social media, billboards, and broadcasts of live sporting events. He expressed alarm over the industry’s influence, calling for Congress to take action.
Joining the lawmakers was Gordon Douglas, whose son struggled with gambling addiction after being targeted by multiple betting companies. His son’s experience reflects the challenges faced by an estimated 7 million Americans with gambling problems. According to the National Institutes of Health, one in five people suffering from gambling addiction has attempted suicide. A recent report also found a significant increase in bankruptcy rates in states with legalized sports betting.
The SAFE Bet Act seeks to regulate three main aspects of the sports betting industry: advertising, affordability, and artificial intelligence (AI). It proposes stricter limits on advertising, particularly during live events, and would restrict the use of AI to track players’ gambling habits. Additionally, the bill aims to limit customer deposits and require that bettors wagering over $1,000 demonstrate financial responsibility.
While proponents argue the legislation is crucial for public health, the bill faces opposition. The American Gaming Association has called it a blow to state regulators and gaming operators, while Rep. Dina Titus (D-Nev.) described the bill as outdated.
Despite the pushback, advocates like the Douglas family believe these regulations are essential to protect vulnerable individuals from the dangers of gambling addiction.
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