New York Regulators to Explore New Guardrails to Deter Underage Gambling at Behest of Governor

• The New York State Gaming Commission said it will consider additional safeguards to deter underage gambling in the state
• Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) today called on lawmakers to cut off sports betting access for underage residents
• Hochul mentioned the need during her state of the state address

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) today called out lawmakers during her state of the state address, urging for new methods to deter underage New Yorkers from having access to sports betting and online gambling.

The New York State Gaming Commission is up to the task.

“The Gaming Commission fully supports and applauds Governor Hochul’s commitment to protect New Yorkers, including safeguards to prevent underage individuals from gambling and employing innovative tech to identify and help those who may be experiencing gambling harms,” New York State Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer said in a released statement.

Biometrics, Higher Consequences to Be Considered

Gov. Hochul touched on the need for more online safeguards for the youth of New York, citing the dangers of exposure to online sports betting, online gaming platforms such as “Roblox,” and social media for those under 18.

“Let’s block location-sharing and let’s do more to cut off access to online sports gambling so our kids are not ensnared by addiction at a young age,” she said.

The New York State Gaming Commission responded quickly, publishing a statement that it expects to consider new actions to prevent underage access to sports betting. These actions range from new biometric requirements for account holders to heightened consequences for adults who share their legal sports betting accounts with minors.

“The Commission will consider actions to prevent underage access, including the possibility of biometric requirements for account access and real consequences for those who share their legal accounts with underage individuals. We will also continue to work with OASAS to implement the latest technology into the online sports wagering process to best position access to help for those who need it.”

Senator Applauds Protections, Wants More Regulated Gaming

Sen. Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. (D-15), one of the staunchest proponents of legalized sports betting and iGaming in the Empire State, said he supports Hochul’s declaration for more safeguards to protect minors from gambling.

Sports betting is a regulated industry in New York, he said, with lawmakers having the ability and responsibility to implement measures to prevent underage participation. These safeguards, he said, should be extended to the regulation and legalization of iGaming, which will allow lawmakers to better protect vulnerable New York populations.

“At the same time, this effort underscores a broader truth. When gaming is regulated, we can protect players. We should apply the same principle to legalize iGaming, so that all New Yorkers, including minors who are already currently participating in iGaming through apps in other states and illegal sites, can benefit from strong consumer protections, transparency, and oversight,” he said.

Addabbo recently re-introduced SB 2164, which seeks to legalize iGaming in New York. If approved, casinos, video lottery terminal facilities, online sports betting operators, and New York tribes will be eligible to offer iGaming.

It is the fourth year in a row Addabbo has filed an iGaming bill in the state.

“Regulation allows us to act responsibly, protect minors, and create a safer, enjoyable environment for everyone. I am hopeful Governor Hochul expands on her own vision to protect minors from mobile sports betting and works towards doing the same by legalizing and regulating iGaming in New York,” he said.