The Evolving Landscape of Gambling Legislation: A September 2024 Update

September 2024 marked a significant month in the realm of gambling legislation across the United States, particularly with California leading the charge. With an impressive 16 gambling-related bills passing into law before the state legislature went into recess on September 1, an increasing interest in gambling regulation is evident. Beyond California, states such as Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania are still active in legislative discussions on gambling, while Delaware is in special session until the end of the year.

This article will delve into three notable bills recently introduced in the U.S. Congress that could have widespread ramifications for the gambling industry, alongside a closer look at recent state-specific legislations that have been enacted in California, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York.

Major Federal Legislation Introduced

1. Ban Gambling on Elections Act of 2024

One of the most consequential bills introduced recently is the Ban Gambling on Elections Act of 2024. This legislation aims to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to prohibit any form of gambling related to political elections, thereby ensuring that political integrity and civic values are safeguarded. The act would essentially prevent any betting or trading of contracts related to the outcomes of political contests, indicating a significant step towards protecting electoral processes from the influence of gambling interests. This bill was introduced on September 18, 2024, and is currently under review by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.

2. Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet Act (SAFE Bet Act)

The SAFE Bet Act is another crucial piece of legislation recently brought before Congress, encompassing proposals designed to establish minimum federal standards for sports betting. This act would regulate the acceptance of sports wagers, outline state programs, and emphasize public health considerations. Divided into three titles, it addresses compliance with state laws, security measures, and consumer protections while allowing state and tribal authorities the jurisdiction in the implementation of their programs. Introduced on September 12 and 16, 2024, these bills are currently under review by various Senate committees.

3. Public Health Considerations in Sports Betting

A key aspect of the SAFE Bet Act also focuses on public health in the realm of sports betting. The legislation mandates broad surveys on online betting, formation of a national self-exclusion list to assist individuals suffering from gambling addiction, and requires the Surgeon General to produce a report on public health challenges linked with sports betting. This comprehensive approach aims to create a balanced framework that promotes responsible gambling while integrating health-focused strategies.

Recent State-Level Legislation

California

California has made substantial strides in gambling regulation with several bills becoming law:

• AB 2863: This act strengthens consumer protection laws regarding automatic renewal and continuous service offers, impacting how gambling entities engage customers in California. Effective from January 1, 2025, it requires businesses to ensure consumer consent and provide reminders, enhancing transparency in service agreements.

• SB 931: This legislation modifies the timeframe for hearings related to work permit suspensions in the gambling industry, streamlining procedures and potentially expediting administrative actions.

• Gambling Policy Enhancements: Several acts under the California gambling framework have been established, including adjustments to the structure and membership of advisory committees to enhance regulatory oversight.

Delaware

Delaware has enacted important changes to its charitable gaming laws through HB 389, which allows organizations to hold up to 20 raffle events annually without individual event approval but mandates comprehensive reporting following these events. This streamlined process aims to foster more significant support for charitable organizations engaged in gaming activities.

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, HB 4799 has introduced modifications to excise tax rates for sports wagering and fantasy contests, positively impacting the financial landscape of these activities within the state.

New Jersey

Continuing its support for the horse racing industry, New Jersey’s AB 2610 extends annual purse subsidies through the fiscal year 2029. This act allocates significant funding to diverse racing sectors, reinforcing the economic stability of the industry.

New York

Lastly, New York’s SB 8441 focuses on regulations concerning the state’s thoroughbred breeding and development fund, ensuring effective management and operational coherence amidst evolving gaming practices.

Conclusion

The landscape of gambling legislation across the United States is rapidly evolving, with numerous states recognizing the need for robust frameworks that address both the economic potential and the accompanying social responsibilities. As Congress considers new regulations and states implement their laws, industry stakeholders and consumers alike must stay informed and engaged. The balance between fostering economic growth through gambling and ensuring responsible practices is paramount as we move toward 2025. The coming months promise to bring further developments and discussions, underscoring the importance of vigilance and active participation in shaping future legislation.