New York Pushes Sportsbooks to Identify Problem Gamblers

The New York Gaming Commission is pushing sports betting operators to better identify players who may be at risk for problem gambling. The commission’s proposed regulations would require sportsbooks to designate one employee as a “responsible gambling lead.” This staff member would identify at-risk users and help provide resources for treating gambling addiction.

The regulations would also require the responsible gambling lead to ensure these users don’t receive gambling promotions or marketing materials. The commission has proposed banning AI or machine learning algorithms that could be used to “select, customize, time or deliver promotions, bonuses, odds, limits, messages, or product recommendations,” to certain users.

The regulations come as Gov. Kathy Hochul has pushed for additional regulations on the industry. In January, she outlined proposals meant to curb underage gambling, including the use of biometric data. State gaming regulators followed that up in April with additional rules meant to prevent gambling addiction and promote responsible gaming.