Governor Kathy Hochul made a significant move to enhance player safety and combat gambling harm in New York by signing a new bill into law. This legislation, known as S1550/A1118, mandates that all gambling and sports betting advertisements include warnings about the addictive and harmful effects of gambling. Previously, only a problem gambling hotline number was required to be displayed in these advertisements, but this new law extends those requirements.
The timing of this regulatory update is crucial as New York is gearing up to issue three new casino licenses in the downstate region, which will greatly expand the state’s gambling industry. The new law also brings mobile sports betting advertisements under the same strict regulations as other gambling promotions, with the goal of reducing instances of problem gambling.
The responsibility of ensuring compliance with these new regulations falls on the New York State Gaming Commission, which will work closely with the Commissioner of Addiction Services and Supports to ensure that all gambling ads also promote resources for problem gamblers. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of these new restrictions in providing improved safety for New Yorkers who engage in betting activities.
Brian O’Dwyer, chair of the New York State Gaming Commission, commended Governor Hochul’s decision to implement these regulations, calling them “smart and responsible.” He expressed optimism that these policies would reinforce the state’s commitment to promoting responsible gaming practices. New York already offers a range of services to assist individuals struggling with gambling addiction, including residential and outpatient programs, recovery support services, and access to Problem Gambling Resource Centers across different regions.
However, despite these efforts to enhance player safety, delays in the issuance of downstate casino licenses continue to be a cause for concern. The New York State Legislature approved up to three licenses in 2022, but the Gaming Commission has indicated that final decisions are unlikely to be made before December 2025 at the earliest.
State Senator Joseph Addabbo and Assemblyman Gary Pretlow have expressed frustration with the slow progress in issuing these licenses, arguing that expediting the process could bring significant economic benefits, such as generating $1.5 billion or more in license fees. Despite the potential economic gains, many local communities have shown resistance to the idea of having a casino in their vicinity.
In conclusion, the signing of this new bill is seen as a positive step towards providing New Yorkers with easier access to safety resources that can help protect them from the risks associated with gambling addiction. The hope is that these new regulations will contribute to a safer and more responsible gambling environment in the state.
