The state is rapidly cutting back on how gambling and betting operators can advertise
New York lawmakers are proposing stricter regulations for sportsbook advertising, aiming to extend existing restrictions currently applicable to retail casinos to the online sports betting industry. Assemblyman Clyde Vanel’s Bill A10658, if passed, would further tighten New York’s grip on sportsbook marketing practices. The bill proposes several key changes, including extending existing rules to encompass online sportsbooks and stricter language regarding the depiction of minors in gambling advertisements.
It also emphasizes the requirement for displaying responsible gambling messaging in advertisements. This proposed legislation follows New York’s recent scrutiny of the gambling industry’s marketing practices, including the ban on certain terms like “free” and “risk-free” in sportsbook marketing.
New York already has already established rules for casino advertising, including requirements for truthful and clear advertisements, transparent promotions, age restrictions, clear branding, problem gambling helpline information, targeted ad opt-outs and ad recordkeeping. If passed, Vanel’s bill would ensure these existing standards apply equally to online sports betting operators and potentially future online casinos, if and when the state joins the legal iGaming market.
The proposal for tighter regulations continues to spark debate. Proponents of online casinos believe iGaming legalization could address budget deficits, while others, including a retail casino workers’ union and the governor, oppose it. With the ongoing process of selecting new downstate retail casino licensees, discussions involving iGaming are likely on hold for the foreseeable future. This move reflects a growing trend towards stricter gambling advertisement regulations, with New York aiming to ensure responsible marketing practices within the online sports betting space.
