California lawmakers are advancing new legislation aimed at tightening restrictions on online sports betting within the state. Assembly Bill 2617, known as the “Protecting Kids from Online Gambling Act,” was introduced as part of a broader effort to address concerns around youth exposure.
Under AB 2617, lawmakers are proposing a ban on sports betting advertising. The measure would prohibit promotional content from daily fantasy sports and sports betting platforms. No ads would be allowed on websites, apps, and social media within California. The goal is to o
The legislation also introduces strict age verification requirements for platforms operating in the state. These provisions would require operators to collect only the minimum amount of personal data necessary to confirm a user’s age. It would prohibit the reuse of that information for other purposes. The data would then have to be immediately deleted once age verification is complete.
Together, these measures aim to reduce underage access while addressing concerns around data privacy from sports betting platforms.
The push to ban sports betting advertising comes amid growing concerns that the volume and visibility of gambling promotions have become too intense, particularly across digital platforms.
In recent years, advertising from sportsbooks and daily fantasy operators has expanded rapidly, appearing across social media feeds, streaming platforms, and mobile apps. The risk here is that this oversaturation can normalize gambling behavior and increase exposure among vulnerable groups, including youth, who are more at risk of problem gambling.
Earlier this year, Sacred Heart University conducted a poll among students, which highlighted how a majority of respondents thought that sports betting advertising had too much exposure. This underscores how even participants in sports betting feel that the aggressive marketing needs to be toned down.
AB 2617 represents another step in California’s cautious and restrictive approach to sports betting. While the state has yet to legalize online sports wagering, the proposed advertising ban signals that lawmakers are focused on tightening controls around the broader gambling ecosystem before considering any expansion.
If enacted, the bill could significantly limit the visibility and reach of sports betting platforms within California, making it more difficult for operators to attract users.
At the same time, the legislation highlights a growing emphasis on consumer protection and responsible gaming. By prioritizing reduced exposure and stricter safeguards, California is positioning itself as a state that emphasizes player safety.
AB 2617 has been referred to the Government Relations Committee, where it will undergo initial review and discussion by lawmakers. During this stage, legislators will evaluate the scope of the proposed advertising restrictions, age verification requirements, and potential impacts on operators and digital platforms.
If the bill advances out of committee, it will move through additional readings and votes in the Assembly before potentially heading to the Senate for further consideration.
