AGA Opposes Gambling Advertising Ban Proposal
Last week, the American Gaming Association issued a statement opposing the bill to ban gambling advertising proposed by a New York Congressman.
According to the bill by Rep. Paul D. Tonko, gambling advertising, including legal sports betting, should be limited or totally banned. The act seeks to protect vulnerable individuals, especially young ones, who may not fully understand the risks connected with gambling and proposes to prohibit the advertising of sportsbooks on any medium of electronic communication.
Senior Vice President of AGA Chris Cylke expressed the Association’s strong opposition to any legislation that would have such an extensive effect on gambling advertising since it may cause harm for consumers and communities by reducing awareness of legal options and driving more people to offshore operators.
One of the points in AGA’s argumentation is that new legislation would be a violation of free speech protections. At the same time, AGA believes that the legal gaming industry has a responsibility to promote responsible gaming, with ads playing an essential role in that effort.
Also, the American Gaming Association highlights that Congress should focus on combating the illegal offshore market, which doesn’t follow responsible gaming requirements such as age verification and display of problem gambling resources.
However, AGA’s opposition appreciates Rep. Tonko’s interest in the issue, so the organization will remain committed to working with legislators to promote a sustainable legal marketplace where consumer protection is first placed.
It’s worth noting that Tonko’s bill is a federal one, so this is an effort to raise the issue of gambling advertising regulation to a national level. Before this, there have been ongoing efforts to restrict sportsbook advertising at the state level.
In other news, Bally’s wants to bring a casino to the Bronx, NY.
