New York Open to Modifying NBA Sports Betting Rules

O’Dwyer noted that in New York, the Commission controls the betting options, not the operating sportsbooks. This gives the state the power to limit or exclude wagers on certain leagues and sports.

Betting Menu Control and Integrity Focus

New York’s position highlights the state’s regulatory power over the wagering menu. State law allows sports leagues to formally ask for the restriction, limitation, or exclusion of certain types of bets.

While the NYSGC has not yet received a formal request from the NBA, O’Dwyer promised a swift response. He stated the Commission would act “with utmost alacrity” upon receiving a request, despite the standard 60-day regulatory timeline.

The main goal behind this readiness is to ensure event integrity in sports wagering across New York. This proactive approach follows recent gambling-related scandals and arrests involving NBA figures.

O’Dwyer praised the integrity monitoring systems required by New York, stating they have helped uncover illegal activity. “I wish to highlight in New York, unlike many jurisdictions, the commission – not operators – controls the wagering menu and limits the sports and leagues accepted for sports wagering,” O’Dwyer wrote to Silver.

Potential Limits on Prop Bets

The most likely target for new restrictions is prop bets. These wagers focus on the individual performance of a player or a specific in-game event, such as a player’s total points or rebounds. Regulatory bodies often view prop bets as easier to manipulate. They also raise concerns about increased pressure on athletes. Commissioner Silver has previously called for reducing betting options on two-way contracts, which involve players who move between the NBA and the G League.

The NYSGC is available for further discussion with the NBA. The Commission is eager to assist in any way to secure the integrity of legal wagering. O’Dwyer confirmed this openness: “We are available to further discuss the matter and assist in any way to ensure the integrity of New Yorkers’ legal wagering on NBA games and players.”

Industry-Wide Impact

New York is the largest legal sports betting market in the United States. Any move by the state to restrict prop bets could influence the industry across the nation. Other states often look to New York as a regulatory model.

If New York limits these wagers, other major markets like Virginia, Ohio, and New Jersey may follow suit. This potential shift would likely force sports betting operators to change their product offerings and marketing strategies.