Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. of New York State presented a legislative proposal on May 7, aimed at overhauling the fantasy sports betting landscape within New York. Sporting icons such as former New York Yankees player Tino Martinez and Super Bowl champion David Tyree have openly demonstrated their support for this potentially market-changing bill. The primary goal is to update regulatory infrastructures and modernize the arena of daily fantasy sports.
Bill Aims to Increase Minimal Age Requirement for Participation in Fantasy Sports
The legislation proposes several significant modifications, including elevating the age threshold for entry into daily fantasy sports competitions from 18 to 21. This potential change aligns with the rules governing mobile sports betting within the state. The proposed tweak also aims to rectify a notable legal irregularity that currently allows those under 21 to place wagers on fantasy sports events.
Senator Addabbo underscored the critical importance of revising the existing policies around fantasy sports to safeguard underaged residents of the state and bring the regulatory structure in line with other forms of gambling, as reported by Times Union. The senator vocalized his pledge to improve the current offerings and make gambling safer.
Tino Martinez, a former Yankees baseball legend, lent his support to the bill too. He noted that fantasy sports typically bring families together and provide an entertaining avenue to learn about various athletes. Martinez expounded that raising the age limit would enhance the experience for the people of New York.
Fantasy Sports Bill Secures Endorsement from Super Bowl Winner David Tyree
David Tyree, a Super Bowl victor, echoed Martinez’s sentiments. He highlighted that the legislation aligns with the evolving ways in which the public interacts with sporting events. Tyree observed that modern audiences crave more interactive experiences with sports. This bill caters to such expectations while simultaneously fostering a safer environment for sports aficionados.
Besides, the bill intends to broaden user choices by integrating prop-based contests into fantasy sports. The proposed changes also strive to procure additional income for the state of New York, with revenue projections approximated at a potential $150 million boost.
In response to fears regarding market over-saturation, Senator Addabbo was dismissive of such apprehensions. The senator insisted that fantasy sports and mobile sports betting operate on separate trajectories and can mutually enhance rather than threaten each other.
Furthermore, Senator Addabbo and Senator Leroy Comrie have proposed three additional bills. These bills aim to strengthen gambling regulations, protect vulnerable gamblers, and generate funding for treatments of gambling-related harm.
