Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal introduced bill A9343, aiming to eliminate all live (in‑play) sports betting options at sportsbooks operating in New York. This proposal comes amid heightened concerns over sports integrity following recent incidents in professional baseball and basketball.
In-play betting allows bettors to place wagers during a game, a fast‑growing segment of the industry. For example, 74% of the total handle in the early NFL season for Genius Sports’ BetVision platform was attributed to in‑play wagers. Removing this option could significantly reshape the state’s betting market.
The impetus for the bill centers on high-profile betting scandals involving MLB pitchers suspected of fixing pitches and NBA prop bet controversies. These events prompted officials to examine systems of wagering that could undermine fairness in play.
In response, MLB agreed to cap individual pitch markets at $200 and disallowed parlays including these bets. Similarly, the NBA has modified injury reporting requirements and is reviewing prop bet structures, including limiting single-play wagers. Rosenthal’s bill seeks to extend that scrutiny to the betting marketplace itself.
Alongside A9343, several other legislative proposals aim to reshape betting regulations:
These bills reflect a legislative push to balance consumer rights, market fairness, and revenue interests.
Live in-play betting contributes substantially to state tax revenue due to higher turnover and volume. A ban on this betting format could reduce the 9% state tax yield on gambling wins, potentially costing New York millions in annual fiscal income. However, exact projections remain unclear.
Critics warn that ending in-play betting might push consumers toward unregulated offshore platforms or nearby markets like New Jersey and Connecticut.
Rosenthal’s office has not yet issued a statement responding to inquiries. Industry stakeholders are expected to weigh in during the upcoming 2026 legislative session, as these proposals may significantly shift the structure and financial contours of New York’s sports betting ecosystem.
Supporters say the measures could enhance oversight and protect game integrity. Opponents argue they might hurt market competitiveness and unduly harm state finances.
New York legislators will consider these and related bills, such as those governing wagering limits and advertising, as they meet in early 2026. The fate of live betting—and its ripple effects—will be a central point of debate as the Empire State reassesses sports betting regulations.
