Hochul signs gambling risks disclosure bill for advertisers

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday signed legislation requiring sports betting and gambling companies to inform people of the risks and addictiveness of gambling.

This bill also requires the state Gaming Commission to collaborate with the commissioner of Addiction Services and Supports to make sure all ads include the problem gambling hotline number.

Stephen Master, professor of sports and media at New York University’s Stern School of Business, teaches courses on Sports Sponsorship and Media, and The Business of Sports Betting. He has worked with brands like DraftKings and BetMGM, companies directly impacted by this bill.

He said if these companies want to continue to profit, they will take the law seriously and fully comply.

“This is coming from the most senior levels of marketing to ensure responsible gaming and making sure that the message is heard as much as possible by only 21+,” said Master. “Particularly digital, when you can do more targeting. So they’re very, very thoughtful about it.”

Previously, it was the law that their ads had to include the number to the problem gambling hotline.

Now, they have to include warnings and make it clear what people are getting into if they don’t bet responsibly or aren’t able to stop.

Master said these apps already require users to register and users can put themselves on a list if they have a gambling problem. If they are on that list, the app will not open for them.

According to the bill, advertisers have 60 days to implement these warnings.

Anyone in need of help for a gambling problem can contact the NYS Problem Gambling Hotline at 1-877-846-7369.