House Bill No. 5271 seeks to prohibit gaming-related advertising, marketing, and promotional activities at public institutions of higher education. The bill amends subsection (e) of section 12-863 of the general statutes, replacing existing language with new provisions that restrict gaming entities from disseminating advertisements on college campuses and associated online platforms. Key insertions include a ban on advertising targeting individuals under twenty-one years of age, or under eighteen for specific gaming activities, along with a requirement for all advertisements to clearly state the minimum age for participation. The bill also explicitly prohibits any gaming-related promotions from being published or displayed on the campuses of public higher education institutions or their digital platforms.
In addition to these provisions, the bill modifies existing advertising restrictions by removing language that previously allowed certain types of advertising aimed at younger audiences and clarifying definitions of prohibited advertising practices. The intent is to protect younger individuals from exposure to gaming promotions in educational settings. Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions regarding online keno and online lottery draw games, allowing for increased chances of winning based on higher wagers, subject to approval by the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). It also regulates advertising practices within the gaming industry by prohibiting financial incentives or bonuses that could mislead consumers. The General Law Committee has favorably reported this bill, indicating strong support for its provisions.