In the near future, I intend to introduce legislation to protect Pennsylvania students from accessing online gambling and sports wagering while at school.

Pennsylvania has authorized interactive gaming and sports wagering under a licensed and regulated framework. That framework was built for adults making lawful choices. It was never intended to reach into our classrooms. Yet the reality today is that a student can sit in a classroom or stand on a playground and, using a smartphone, access online gaming and sports betting platforms. In some cases minors are using a parent’s account and credentials to do so.

This is not a hypothetical concern. Ray Mikesell was a young man from South Fayette Township whose struggle with gambling addiction began while he was a student. That addiction followed him for years and ultimately cost him his life. His father has asked that we act so that no other family endures what his family has endured. As he told me, if this legislation helps even one person, it is worth it. I agree. This bill is for Ray.

My legislation would require interactive gaming and sports wagering certificate holders and operators to use geospatial technologies to prevent registered players from accessing online gaming and sports betting sites while physically located within the boundaries of school property, including the grounds and buildings under the control of our schools. By placing the responsibility on licensed operators to enforce a geofence around our schools, we close a gap that has allowed gambling to reach students where they should be safest and most focused on learning.

This is a common-sense protection for our children, and it honors the memory of a young man whose loss should not be in vain. I urge you to join me in cosponsoring this important legislation.