Substitute House Bill No. 5229, also known as Public Act No. 26-53, introduces significant amendments to the regulations surrounding online gaming and sports wagering in Connecticut, set to take effect on July 1, 2026. The bill establishes a master wagering licensee and outlines the responsibilities of licensed online gaming operators, which include prohibiting users from creating multiple accounts, limiting the use of debit and credit cards, and allowing users to set personal spending limits. Additionally, it mandates the creation of a toll-free assistance number for users facing issues with electronic wagering platforms and requires operators to provide information on responsible gambling and self-exclusion options. The bill also revises advertising guidelines to prevent targeting individuals under the legal gambling age and prohibits advertisements in higher education athletic facilities.

Moreover, the bill requires the Commissioner of Consumer Protection to conduct a study on the impact of prediction market platforms, particularly regarding underage usage and problem gambling, with a report due by February 1, 2027. It mandates that electronic wagering platforms implement robust geolocation systems to ensure compliance with state regulations. The bill also modifies existing regulations for testing and certification of lottery gaming systems, requiring timely notifications to the corporation about necessary modifications and emphasizing the development of technical standards for testing. Notably, it removes certain language related to the reporting process and conditions for suspending or revoking lottery game approvals, replacing it with a focus on public interest protection.