New York’s “Fair Play Act” Takes Aim at Sportsbook Limits
A new bill in the New York State Assembly, known as the “Fair Play Act” (A09125), would dramatically change how mobile sportsbooks and their platforms can treat winning customers. Introduced on September 26 by Assembly Member Bores and sent to the Committee on Racing and Wagering, the measure targets a practice that many bettors say undermines confidence in legal sports betting: restricting or banning players simply because they win.
Protecting Authorized Bettors
At its core, the Fair Play Act bars mobile sports wagering operators and platforms from limiting the size or frequency of deposits or wagers for any “authorized sports bettor” because that bettor has obtained a financial benefit or simply because of their betting activity. The proposal covers both limits and outright bans.
This is a sharp departure from the status quo, where operators retain wide discretion to reduce limits for high-performing or high-volume customers. If enacted, the law would compel platforms to maintain equal treatment for bettors who meet all regulatory requirements.
When Limits Are Still Allowed
The bill does not strip sportsbooks of all discretion. Two key exceptions are written directly into the text:
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Suspicious wagering activity – operators could still act if a pattern of bets indicates possible fraud, manipulation or integrity issues.
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Indicators of a gambling disorder – limits or bans remain permissible if an operator has evidence that a bettor is at risk of harm.
These carve-outs mirror the state’s focus on both integrity and responsible gaming.
The measure also creates a strict notification rule. If an authorized bettor is limited or banned, the operator or platform must send an electronic written notice within 24 hours. That notice must include specific information explaining the action so the bettor understands why it occurred.
Why It Matters
If passed, the Fair Play Act would amend New York’s racing, pari-mutuel wagering and breeding law, reshaping relationships between mobile sportsbooks and their customers. Supporters argue it levels the playing field for skilled bettors and adds transparency. Operators warn it could increase risk exposure if they cannot manage high-volume accounts in real time.
For now, A09125 is at the committee stage. But its introduction signals growing legislative scrutiny of mobile sportsbooks’ treatment of their most active customers, an issue that has simmered since legal sports betting launched in New York.
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