In response to Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of the State address, New York has outlined draft measures aimed at curbing underage access to online gambling and enhancing safeguards for all bettors. The proposals, issued by the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC), target sports wagering platforms, casinos, and horse racing operators, emphasizing protection for individuals under 21.
“Mobile sports wagering is everywhere, enticing everyone — including our youth — to place bets without fully considering the consequences,” Hochul said. “We need strong regulatory safeguards to prevent those under 21 from gambling, keep artificial intelligence from preying on gamblers, and require sports wagering operators take real action if one of their customers is showing signs of gambling harm. I’m thankful to the Gaming Commission for putting forth comprehensive measures that achieve these goals and protect New Yorkers. As a reminder: Only legal, regulated gaming have such safeguards in place.”
The NYSGC’s draft rules include new age-assurance measures, mandatory biometric identification, and geolocation controls to prevent underage users from downloading gambling apps or creating accounts. Existing accounts would need to provide biometric data within two months or face closure, and adult players could temporarily block their Social Security numbers from being used to open accounts.
AI Restrictions and Responsible Gaming Protocols
The Commission is also considering limits on AI-driven personalized promotions, requiring operators to avoid offering tailored wagers or betting suggestions to individual customers. Each operator would designate a Responsible Gaming Lead tasked with monitoring at-risk patrons and intervening when necessary.
Triggers prompting intervention include high-volume deposits, repeated self-exclusion attempts, frequent limit increases, multiple canceled withdrawals, and increased gaming activity. Intervention follows a three-phase system: Phase 1 provides responsible gaming information, Phase 2 requires a video on gambling harms, and Phase 3 involves direct contact with the Responsible Gaming Lead to discuss options, offer professional support, and potentially suspend accounts.
Broader Legislative and Industry Context
Public input on these proposals is being sought through May 15, 2026. Comments will be accepted from gaming operators, treatment providers, educational and religious organizations, and parent groups.
NYSGC Chair Brian O’Dwyer emphasized the importance of protecting youth and assisting those at risk: “Per her direction, we have identified additional ways to protect our youth, help those who need it at the point of crisis, and keep legalized, regulated gaming safe for all New Yorkers. We look forward to hearing from the public on these important proposals.”
Problem gambling advocates praised the draft rules. New York Council on Problem Gambling Executive Director Michelle Hadden said, “Regulatory measures are a necessary part of ensuring that the gambling environment is for entertainment for those of legal age ONLY and are an important part of New York’s comprehensive public health approach.”
Legislators, including State Senator Samra Brouk and Assemblymember Carrie Woerner, underscored the urgency of protecting young people from online gambling risks and highlighted the parallels between gambling addiction and other chronic addictions.
These measures are part of a broader effort to address emerging gambling challenges in the US, alongside similar bills being considered in states such as Louisiana, Maine, Indiana, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Maryland.
Source:
“Keeping New Yorkers Safe: Governor Hochul Previews Measures to Keep Youth From Sports Wagering and Protect New Yorkers From Gambling Harms”, governor.ny.gov, March 30, 2026
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