Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Mar. 30 a set of proposed regulations aimed at preventing underage gambling, restricting the use of artificial intelligence by sports wagering operators, and introducing safeguards for New Yorkers at risk of gambling-related harm.
The measures are intended to protect young people from accessing online betting platforms and to ensure that legal gamblers are shielded from potential negative effects. The proposals include requirements for age verification, biometric identification, geolocation controls, and intervention protocols for those exhibiting signs of problem gambling.
“Mobile sports wagering is everywhere, enticing everyone — including our youth — to place bets without fully considering the consequences,” Hochul said. “We need strong regulatory safeguards to prevent those under 21 from gambling, keep artificial intelligence from preying on gamblers, and require sports wagering operators take real action if one of their customers is showing signs of gambling harm. I’m thankful to the Gaming Commission for putting forth comprehensive measures that achieve these goals and protect New Yorkers. As a reminder: Only legal, regulated gaming have such safeguards in place.”
The New York State Gaming Commission has published two draft regulations outlining potential rules for preventing underage play (9 NYCRR § 5402.4) and enhancing responsible gaming practices (9 NYCRR Part 5404). These drafts will be open for public comment until May 15 via email submission before being formally proposed.
Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer said, “As Governor Hochul rightly highlighted: No other form of gambling has pervaded our consciousness like sports wagering, and impressionable kids are constantly exposed to the practice. Per her direction, we have identified additional ways to protect our youth, help those who need it at the point of crisis, and keep legalized, regulated gaming safe for all New Yorkers. We look forward to hearing from the public on these important proposals.” OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham added that problem gambling can be as devastating as substance addiction but often lacks outward signs.
The draft regulations propose banning all licensees or franchisees—not just sports betting—from using AI-driven personalized promotions or suggested wagers targeted at customers. To further block underage access, requirements would include age-assurance tools when downloading apps; mandatory biometric data collection; strict geolocation controls; account access restrictions based on device or location anomalies; adult opt-outs using Social Security numbers; and permanent bans on adults enabling minors’ access.
Additionally, operators would be required to designate a Responsible Gaming Lead who must intervene when patrons meet certain activity triggers—such as high deposit amounts or frequent session increases—through escalating phases ranging from information provision up through direct contact or account closure if problem behavior persists.
Michelle Hadden of the New York Council on Problem Gambling said regulatory actions are vital: “Vulnerability must not be preyed upon in these environments and we appreciate that clear action is being outlined and recommended by the Gaming Commission.” State Senator Samra Brouk also praised efforts addressing youth mental health crises related to online gambling exposure.
The Responsible Play Partnership—including state agencies like OASAS—will continue supporting prevention programs statewide while inviting feedback from stakeholders such as parents’ groups before finalizing any new rules.
