BILL NUMBER: S5537
SPONSOR: GONZALEZ
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the racing, pari-mutuel wagering and breeding law, in
relation to prohibiting mobile sports wagering operators and platforms
from sending push notifications or text message notifications
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
To limit gambling addiction and protect consumer choice by banning push-
ing notifications for online sports wagering apps.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section one: Provides the short title of the bill.
Section two: Provides the legislative intent of the bill.
Section three: Prohibits the sending of pushing notifications by mobile
betting applications.
Section four: Provides the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
While the legalization of online gambling has had all kinds of benefits
in New York State, it's high time for some basic, common sense, steps to
limit addiction. People should be free to place wagers as they see fit,
but should not be overly tempted into doing so. The rates of gambling
addiction in New York are skyrocketing, in part due to a flood of
notifications bettors receive from mobile betting websites and applica-
tions. Constant alerts discourage responsible gaming practices, and if
we don't act the problem will only get worse. With Al enhancing the
ability of gaming companies to collect data and specifically target
consumers, addictions will only get worse as time goes on. Far from
limiting individual freedom, this bill would limit temptation and allow
more people to make responsible, informed decisions about what their
gaming habits should be.
As with many gambling enterprises, a disproportionate amount of revenue
collected by online gambling apps come from a small number of addicted
"problem gamblers." The effects of gambling addiction are well docu-
mented, with irresponsible gaming habits frequently leading to ruined
lives or early graves. Constant reminders of gambling opportunities
through push notifications are one of the key ways betting apps ensure
they have a large number of addicted customers and maximize their
profit.
This irresponsible practice needs to be curbed.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
None.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.