US Senate Judiciary Committee Examines Sports Gambling Oversight

The US Senate Judiciary Committee recently held a hearing titled “America’s High-Stakes Bet on Legalized Sports Gambling.” The session focused on the rapid growth of legalized sports betting, its risks, and potential federal oversight. However, the absence of input from gaming operators left the debate incomplete.

Concerns Over Industry Impact

The hearing centered on the SAFE Bet Act, a proposal by US Senate Senator Richard Blumenthal. The act aims to create federal oversight, overriding state regulations. Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin raised concerns about the accessibility of online sports betting and its potential to fuel addiction. He called on operators to take more responsibility for consumer protection.

Witnesses supported stronger regulations but did not advocate banning sports gambling. NCAA President Charlie Baker urged a ban on prop bets for college athletes. He said these bets expose players to harassment, citing surveys showing 10-15% of Division I athletes have faced threats. Johnson Bademosi from the NFL Players Association called for better safeguards to protect athlete data and prevent harmful betting practices.

Addiction and Public Health Risks

The committee also addressed gambling addiction. Keith Whyte from the National Council on Problem Gambling and Dr. Harry Levant, a former gambling addict, voiced concerns about technology’s role in promoting constant betting. Levant described the industry as resembling a “nonstop slot machine.” He called for stricter federal rules to protect consumers from harmful practices.

David Rebuck, a former New Jersey gaming official, defended state-led regulation. He argued states already address issues like addiction through partnerships and effective practices. He said federal intervention could disrupt existing progress.

Divided Support for Federal Oversight

Support for the SAFE Bet Act was mixed. Dr. Levant fully backed the bill, while others, like Baker and Bademosi, endorsed specific parts. Keith Whyte proposed an alternative—the Gambling Addiction Recovery Investment and Treatment Act. This bill reallocates federal excise taxes to state health agencies to combat gambling addiction.

Balancing Growth and Regulation

The hearing revealed tension between state control and federal oversight. Critics said the industry must do more to protect consumers and prevent harm. Proponents of state-led efforts argued existing frameworks work well.

As Congress considers its next steps, the debate will shape the future of sports betting in America. The challenge lies in balancing the industry’s rapid growth with consumer protection and public health concerns.