The New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) is considering tightening sportsbook rules in response to a recent surge in gambling addiction rates. Executive Director Robert Williams highlighted a report from the Lancet medical journal, which suggested that up to 450 million people globally could be impacted by problematic gambling. The NYSGC, which oversees the state lottery and regulates the sports betting sector, is exploring ways to address this issue.
Sports betting in New York is a significant industry, with a total handle of nearly $20 billion last year and over 4.2 million accounts created since the market launched in January 2022. While the NYSGC has already implemented stricter online advertising rules and introduced self-exclusion services, it is looking to do more to combat addiction.
Proposed measures include additional reporting requirements for sportsbook operators to help experts better understand the need for precautions. The NYSGC also aims to enhance training protocols for industry employees to help them identify and assist individuals showing signs of addiction.
Overall, the NYSGC is committed to addressing the growing concern of gambling addiction and ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to protect individuals from its harmful effects.