Online sports betting sites in the United States may soon find their promotional efforts getting the Big Tobacco treatment.
Democratic Rep. Paul Tonko announced Thursday that he introduced the "Betting on our Future Act."
If passed, the legislation would make it illegal to advertise sportsbooks anywhere in the United States on television, radio, the internet, or any other form of electronic communication under federal regulation.
Tonko's press release said the bill is modeled after federal legislation that banned tobacco ads. Moreover, the announcement was made just days before the biggest betting day of the year for many people, the Super Bowl, during which people will likely see ads touting the legal sports betting industry.
“Between the plays, the halftime show, and the excitement, tens of millions will be bombarded by ad after ad from DraftKings, FanDuel and others promising so called ‘risk free’ or ‘no sweat’ bets in their ruthless pursuit to get new customers hooked on their products,” Tonko said in a press release. “In the years since the Supreme Court legalized sports betting, these unfettered advertisements have run rampant, with betting companies shelling out billions to ensure they reach every screen across America. These ads pose a particularly dangerous threat to adolescents and young adults unaware of the risks involved in gambling, and to individuals prone to addiction.”
Today, I’m introducing the Betting on our Future Act to take federal action to reel in the problematic rise of predatory advertising by sports gambling companies. Many of you may have noticed these incessant ads, which experts say are contributing to a rise in problem gambling. pic.twitter.com/Uuo7NYjEvu
— Paul Tonko (@RepPaulTonko) February 9, 2023
Tonko is not the first lawmaker or regulator in the U.S. seeking to put tighter restrictions on sports betting-related advertising. In fact, in Tonko's home state, legislation has been introduced that aims to prevent "predatory" bonuses from being offered in connection with New York sports betting.
However, the efforts underway to curb sportsbook advertising are at the state level; Tonko's bill is unique because it is federal legislation. If Tonko's bill were to become law, it would have far-reaching consequences for the entire online gaming industry.
Tonko says now is the time to act, citing the growth of sports betting in the U.S. More than 30 states have now legalized event wagering, and handle across the U.S. is reaching new highs. Meanwhile, a fact sheet supplied by Tonko's office said the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network took approximately 270,000 calls in 2021, up 45% from the previous year.
“The excessive, uncensored promotion of these sites needs to be put in check,” Tonko said in the release. “My legislation puts a halt to this dangerous practice and sends a powerful message to the online sports betting advertisers. Congress must take the necessary steps to reel in an industry with the power to inflict real, widespread harm on the American people.”
