New York Lawmaker Proposes Ban on Live Sports Betting Amid Integrity Concerns

A bill introduced in the New York State Assembly could dramatically reshape the state's sports betting industry by eliminating live wagering. Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal has proposed legislation that would ban all in-play bets at licensed sportsbooks statewide.

Sports bettors lounge and wager at a casino's sportsbook in Las Vegas. (Source: Britannica)

The proposal, A 9343, would prohibit wagers placed after a game has already begun, removing one of the most popular features offered by modern sportsbooks. If enacted, the bill would place New York among the most restrictive betting jurisdictions in the country.

Related: New York's Sports Betting Handle Hits Lowest Point in 10 Months

Although the legislation does not explicitly reference recent events, it comes amid heightened concern over betting-related scandals across professional sports. Lawmakers and regulators nationwide have been reevaluating how certain wagering formats may affect game integrity.

In-play betting has become one of the fastest-growing segments of the U.S. sports betting market. Advances in streaming technology now allow bettors to watch games in real time while placing wagers on individual plays, drives, or moments.

Industry data shows that live betting accounts for a substantial share of overall wagering activity, particularly during major sporting events. For sportsbooks, these bets generate frequent transactions that significantly contribute to revenue.

New York's state budget could also be affected by the proposal, given the state's reliance on sports betting tax revenue. With one of the highest sportsbook tax rates in the nation, any reduction in betting volume could have fiscal implications.

The measure has not yet advanced to committee review, and its prospects remain uncertain.

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Sports Betting Under Fire in New York

The live betting ban is not the only sports wagering bill expected to draw attention during the 2026 legislative session. Another proposal, A 9125, would prevent sportsbooks from limiting or banning players solely based on winning activity.

Operators have argued that the ability to limit high-performing bettors is essential to managing risk and maintaining viable operations. Lawmakers backing the bill contend that such practices are unfair to consumers.

A separate proposal, A 7962, would introduce restrictions on how frequently bettors may deposit funds into their accounts. It would also impose tighter limits on the timing and placement of sports betting advertisements.

These proposals reflect a broader push to strengthen consumer protections and promote responsible gambling. They also signal growing legislative willingness to intervene in sportsbook business practices.

Recent investigations in professional baseball and basketball have intensified scrutiny of certain bet types. Concerns have centered on wagers tied to specific actions within games, such as individual pitches or plays.

In response, some states and leagues have moved to limit or cap certain micro-bets, while others have adjusted injury reporting rules and reviewed prop betting policies. New York lawmakers appear poised to consider similar changes as debate over the future of sports betting continues.

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