US representative renews call for SAFE Bet Act approval after FanDuel response to inducement controversy
New York congressman Paul Tonko has criticised FanDuel for leaving several questions about its VIP programme unanswered.
US.- New York Democrat representative Paul Tonko has criticised FanDuel’s response to congressional questions about its VIP programme and responsible gambling practices. He said the operator’s answers reinforced his view that federal legislation is needed to strengthen consumer protections in sports betting.
Along with senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut and Valerie Foushee or North Carolina, Tonko had asked FanDuel eight questions after the release of a personalised Cameo video message recorded by Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper in 2024 for a high-spending VIP bettor who is now suing the company over a severe gambling addiction. FanDuel responded through Senior VP of Public Policy and Sustainability Cory Fox, but did not answer five of the questions.
Those questions included whether VIP bettors trying to reduce their wagering had been offered incentives to continue, whether promotions target customers on losing streaks, and how FanDuel identifies potentially problematic behaviour. Lawmakers also asked whether the operator would suspend or terminate its VIP programme.
Tonko said FanDuel’s response demonstrated a “broken” responsible gaming model and renewed his call for approval of his proposed SAFE Bet Act. The legislation would establish state-level regulatory oversight, restrict sports betting advertising during live broadcasts and prohibit wagering by people under 21 and members of sports organisations.
The bill also proposes affordability measures, funding for gambling disorder treatment and education, and state and national self-exclusion options. Tonko and Blumenthal reintroduced the legislation in March 2025, but it has since stalled amid opposition from gambling industry lobbyists and the American Gaming Association.
Harper has said that he did not know how FanDuel would use the personalised video he recorded.
