A New Jersey bill designed to prohibit online microbetting cleared the state’s assembly committee, setting the stage to potentially ban the practice in the Garden State.
Key Takeaways
- A New Jersey assembly committee advanced a bill that would ban online microbetting while allowing the wagers at in-person sportsbooks.
- Supporters of the legislation argue rapid-fire wagers on individual plays promote impulsive betting and increase risks.
- The bill must still clear the full Assembly, Senate, and the governor's office before becoming law.
Bill A3258, which cleared the Assembly Tourism, Gaming, and Arts Committee on Tuesday, would prohibit licensed operators from offering micro bets - live wagers placed during a sporting event that focus on the outcome of a single play - online, though in-person micro bets at “sports wagering lounges” would remain permitted.
“Sports betting has expanded significantly in recent years, and with that growth comes a responsibility to make sure safeguards evolve as well,” said Assemblyman Dan Hutchison, one of three individuals sponsoring the bill. “Microbetting moves at a pace that leaves little time for reflection and can encourage impulsive decision-making. This legislation strikes a balance by preserving legal sports wagering while limiting one of its riskiest online forms.”
Co-sponsor Cody Miller shared a similar sentiment regarding his concerns and ultimate support for the bill, arguing the accessibility of online microbetting encourages impulsive behaviors, particularly given the volume of betting opportunities available in rapid succession.
“Technology has changed the way people engage with sports and gaming, but consumer protections need to keep pace,” Miller said. “When wagers can be placed with a few taps every few seconds, it becomes easier for gambling to shift from entertainment to habit. This bill takes a measured approach to reducing that risk.”
The bill, which would alter the landscape of New Jersey sports betting, would define microbetting as a “live proposition bet concerning the outcome of the next play or action occurring during a sporting event.”
The bill must still clear the full Assembly and Senate before heading to the governor’s desk.
