SAFE Bet Act Returns

Another attempt to regulate sports betting at the federal level is underway.

Lawmakers are reintroducing the SAFE Bet Act, seeking to impose national restrictions on advertising, affordability checks, and AI tracking.

If passed, the bill would require states to obtain federal approval for sports betting, fundamentally altering the current regulatory landscape.

While some praise the bill’s consumer protections, critics argue it threatens states’ rights and could disrupt the booming U.S. betting market.

Lawmakers Push for Federal Sports Betting Regulations with SAFE Bet Act

Key Aspects of the SAFE Bet Act

• Calls for a nationwide self-exclusion list and enhanced responsible gambling measures.
• Requires states to apply for federal approval before offering sports betting.
• Proposes strict advertising restrictions, including a ban on gambling ads between 8 AM and 10 PM.

Congress Revives the SAFE Bet Act Amid Growing Sports Betting Concerns

U.S. Congressman Paul Tonko and Senator Richard Blumenthal are set to reintroduce the Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet Act (SAFE Bet Act) at a press conference in Washington, D.C., on March 11.

This marks the third attempt by the lawmakers to establish federal oversight of sports betting since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned PASPA (Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act) in 2018, allowing states to regulate sports wagering independently.

The proposal, first introduced in September 2023, has been met with both support and skepticism, as it aims to reshape the legal framework governing sports betting nationwide.

Representatives from the Public Health Advocacy Institute and families affected by problem gambling will also attend the press conference, reinforcing the bill’s focus on public health and responsible gambling.

Proposed Federal Oversight: A Major Shift in U.S. Gambling Law

One of the most controversial provisions in the SAFE Bet Act is its nationwide prohibition on sports betting unless states receive explicit approval from the U.S. Attorney General.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

• Federal Approval Required – States must apply to continue offering sports betting, with licenses valid for three years.
• Strict Advertising Rules – A nationwide ban on gambling ads between 8 AM and 10 PM to protect younger audiences.
• Responsible Gambling Measures – Creation of a nationwide self-exclusion list and enhanced affordability checks to prevent excessive gambling.
• AI Restrictions – Prohibits operators from using artificial intelligence to track and influence bettors’ gambling behavior.
• Surgeon General’s Report – A federal study on the public health impact of sports betting.

While proponents argue that federal regulation will enhance consumer protections and prevent problem gambling, critics say it violates states’ rights and could disrupt a market that is already generating billions in tax revenue.

Challenges and Industry Pushback

Despite growing concerns over problem gambling, industry leaders and state regulators are expected to resist the SAFE Bet Act.

Since PASPA’s repeal in 2018, 39 states have legalized some form of sports betting, generating millions in tax revenue. With Missouri set to launch by December, the industry’s rapid expansion has raised questions about whether federal intervention is necessary.

Critics argue that the SAFE Bet Act complicates state autonomy, potentially delaying or disrupting existing regulations. Some legal experts question whether the proposal would withstand constitutional challenges, given PASPA’s repeal was based on state sovereignty over gambling laws.

Other Federal Gambling Proposals on the Table

The SAFE Bet Act is not the only sports betting-related bill under discussion.

The Gambling Addiction Recovery, Investment, and Treatment Act (GRIT Act) – Proposes directing a portion of federal excise taxes to fund problem gambling initiatives.

A bill introduced by Rep. Dina Titus – Seeks to eliminate the federal excise tax on sports betting, which industry leaders argue is outdated and unnecessary.

These competing proposals highlight the growing divide over how the federal government should approach the regulation of legal sports betting.

What’s Next for the SAFE Bet Act?

March 11: Tonko and Blumenthal will officially reintroduce the bill in a press conference.

Congressional Debate: Lawmakers will need to rally support to move the proposal forward, facing strong resistance from states and industry leaders.

Public Reaction: Advocacy groups will push for enhanced player protections, while gaming operators will oppose federal oversight.

Next Steps: The bill must pass both chambers of Congress, but with past failures, its future remains uncertain.

A Defining Moment for U.S. Sports Betting

The SAFE Bet Act aims to reshape the legal framework of sports betting in the U.S., but faces major obstacles.

While the bill promotes stronger consumer protections, its federal approval requirement could undermine states’ rights and disrupt an industry generating billions in revenue.

As lawmakers debate the proposal, the future of U.S. sports betting hangs in the balance. Will federal oversight become a reality, or will states continue to chart their own course?

The coming months will determine whether the SAFE Bet Act gains momentum or fades away once again.