New Jersey bill proposes ban on micro bets
Assemblyman Dan Hutchison has proposed legislation that would prohibit any sportsbook operator from offering microbetting.
US.- New Jersey assemblyman Dan Hutchison has introduced Bill A5971, which would prohibit sports wagering licensees from offering or accepting micro bets. Those who do not comply would face a disorderly person’s offence and a fine ranging from $500 to $1,000 per incident.
The bill defines a micro bet as a proposition bet placed live during a sporting event that relates to the outcome of the next play or action.
Hutchison stated: “The pace of micro betting is designed to keep people gambling constantly, making one impulsive bet after another with little time to think. This bill is a commonsense step to slow that cycle down and protect individuals from the financial and emotional harms that can come with excessive betting.
“This legislation isn’t about banning sports betting. It’s about setting boundaries to ensure it’s done responsibly. By banning micro bets, we would be taking a clear stand against predatory practices that push people toward irresponsible gambling habits.”
According to Hutchison’s office, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ) has reported a 277 per cent spike in calls to its problem gambling helpline since the legalisation of sports wagering.
The governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, recently signed a bill into law that prohibits sportsbook operators from partnering with public universities located within the state. Senate Bill 2155 will prevent operators from promoting their brands on campus and inside athletics facilities.
