The rapid spread of legal sports betting in the US has brought with it an unfortunate side effect. Professional athletes across the country have noticed a rise in abuse from spectators as angry bettors take their frustrations out on the athletes involved in their bets.
The situation has become so concerning for athletes that New York is taking action against this harassment. Lawmakers in the state are seeking to pass legislation that would ban anyone from betting if they are found to be harassing athletes.
Senate Bill 7482 would amend the racing, parimutuel wagering and breeding law
A pair of anti-harassment bills are making their way through the legislature. Senate Bill 7482 would amend the racing, parimutuel wagering and breeding law. It would make anyone who harassed “amateur or professional athletes, coaches, officials or participants of a sports event” a prohibited sports bettor.
Anyone banned is able to appeal the decision, which would be handed down by the New York State Gaming Commission.
Assembly Bill 7903 is the second bill which addresses the issue. It includes much of the same language of the Senate Bill and has been advanced by the Assembly Racing and Wagering Committee. The body voted 10-0 in favor of the legislation.
New York is not the only state to confront this issue. Ohio has already enacted legislation permitting bans for harassers of athletes. Governor DeWine also wants to ban prop bets, warning that they increase the chances of harassment for individual players, plus an undue risk to the integrity of sports.
