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New York Governor Signs Legislation Tightening Gambling Ad Requirements

Ziv Chen

Last Updated: October 3, 2024 8:46 AM EDT • 1 min 57 sec read.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul addresses the crowd as we look at new legislation in New York for gambling and sports betting advertising.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul addresses the crowd at the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology. Photo by: Daniel DeLoach/Utica Observer-Dispatch/USA TODAY NETWORK.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed new legislation tightening the rules for gambling and sports betting advertisements for our best sports betting sites. The law aims to help protect New Yorkers against the addictive effects of gambling.

The legislation, S1550/A1118, requires all gambling advertisements to include warnings about the risks associated with gambling. This builds on the previous law that mandated the inclusion of a gambling hotline number. The new bill also clarifies that New York sports betting app ads are subject to the same conditions as other gaming-related ads.

“We are excited that the Governor recognizes this bill as an important step forward in protecting New Yorkers that may be vulnerable to a gambling addiction,” said Assemblymember Clyde Vanel, as reported in a release.

“With this new law, we are strengthening the protection of New Yorkers across our State. These new changes to the gambling advertisements law will help to promote responsible gaming practices and provide support for those who need it.”

“Protecting New Yorkers from the dangerous and addictive effects of problem gambling and sports betting is vitally important for the prosperity of our great State,” commented Governor Hochul. “I want New Yorkers to be able to safely enjoy the activities they love, while proceeding with caution when necessary. I’m confident that with the signing of this new bill, New Yorkers will have easier access to the safety resources they need to better protect themselves from the grips of addiction.”

Gambling in New York

New York launched its legal sports betting market in Jan. 2022, available online and at retail sportsbooks. Following the launch of ESPN BET last week, the state is now home to nine New York sports betting operators. Other options include FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM.

The state also has several tribal casinos, racinos, and four commercial casinos. The state legislature has approved up to three more commercial casino licenses, applications for which are required by the June 27, 2025, deadline. Several operators have already submitted proposals, including Caesars Entertainment in partnership with SL Green and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. Jay-Z has promised over $250 million to support the Hell’s Kitchen community if his bid is successful.

As gambling access continues to grow in NY - in part because of excellent New York sportsbook promos - it is vital to continue to raise awareness of its risks. State Senator Leroy Comrie commented:

“New York residents have access to various gambling options, including casinos, racetracks, the lottery and sports betting platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings. It’s essential that users are informed about the risks of addiction and know where to seek help if needed. While revenue for the State is certainly important, promoting responsible gambling and safeguarding our communities is also critical.”

New York imposes a 51% tax rate on gross gaming revenues, one of the highest in the country. The funds support various statewide causes, such as youth programs, education, and problem gambling treatment. Since the launch of sports betting in 2022, the state has collected over $1.75 billion in taxes, including $862 million last year.

Written By:
Ziv Chen
Ziv has over two decades of experience in the igaming and sports betting industry, having served in senior marketing and business development positions with both B2C and B2B companies, including Playtech and Microgaming. In 2019, Ziv decided to pursue his passion for writing and became a fulltime industry journalist, covering casino, sports, and gambling business news. He’s specialties include casino games and technology, US state gambling regulation, company performance, as well as gambling affiliates and marketing. As a Pitt graduate, Ziv is a diehard fan of all Pittsburgh sports teams, with the Steelers at the top of the list. In his free time, he enjoys reading crime fiction, biographies (mainly of sports personalities, but not only) and American history. Ziv’s Favorite quote: “We're going to pursue perfection, knowing full well we won't catch it, but we're going to relentlessly chase it," Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach.