Federal sports betting bill appears in US Congress

THE United States Congress is mulling over a new bill that would give the federal government the ultimate say over sports betting laws around the country.

The proposed legislation, which is still in the draft stage, would deny states the right to start up their own regulated gambling industries without first receiving the green light from Washington.

The draft reads: “To request approval to administer a state sports wagering program, a state shall submit an application to the Attorney General at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as the Attorney General may require.”

It also calls for nationwide standards to address problem gambling and a number of requirements for the handling of league data.

The bill would effectively replace the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA), which the US Supreme Court struck down earlier this year.

Six states have legalised sports betting since then, while several more are ready to follow suit.

There has also been a flurry of activity among top-flight sporting organisations and betting operators, with several high-profile partnerships already announced.

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The bill originated with senators Orrin Hatch and Chuck Schumer, both noted opponents of legalised gambling.

“As a New York sports fan … and a senator, my priority … is making sure the integrity of the games we love is preserved, that young people and those suffering from gambling addiction are not taken advantage of, and that consumers that choose to engage in sports betting are appropriately protected,” Senator Schumer said in statement in August.

The bill’s publication has met with plenty of criticism from the other side of the US gambling debate.

“Since the Supreme Court’s ruling in May, the American Gaming Association has consistently maintained that federal legislation regarding sports betting is not necessary,” said Chris Cylke of the American Gaming Association.

“That underlying position remains unchanged. At the same time, we remain committed to maintaining an open and constructive dialogue with policymakers considering sports betting legislation at any level of government.”

Congresswoman Dina Titus pointed out that new federal laws for sports betting could have a significant impact on existing wagering industries.

“This draft bill raises serious questions about the treatment of states like Nevada that already successfully regulate sports betting,” she said.

“The Supreme Court’s decision overturning PASPA was not an invitation for the federal government to repress states that have led the way. I’ll continue to fight for Nevada’s best interests in these discussions.”

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