NJ Lawmakers Seek Responsible Gambling Stipulation On Sportsbooks’ College Deals

A bill that’s currently before state lawmakers would require public colleges and universities in New Jersey to administer a gambling addiction prevention program if they wish to partner with a sportsbook. Drafted by Assembly Deputy Speaker Mila Jasey, bill A5498 would necessitate these schools to supply students with responsible gambling insight and materials.

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NJ Responsible Gambling Bill Particulars

The bill takes effect immediately if it goes through. It reads that any sports betting agreement between a sportsbook operator and a New Jersey college or university “to advertise in the institution’s stadiums and other facilities, in digital and broadcast sports content, and through other means” would be bound to the bill’s guidelines.

Additionally, bill A5498 states that these respective institutions must dispense details on a hotline for those with a gambling problem. It’s mandatory that the hotline is shared on the universities’ websites, along with their sports facilities, dormitories, libraries, and any other part of campus in which the school deems to be suitable.

This act is seemingly a reaction to the American Gaming Association’s (AGA) latest Responsible Marketing Code. In particular, it prohibits college partnerships that advertise or promote sports betting promos and bonus codes to college-age individuals, utilizing “risk-free” in the process.

Keep in mind, the NBA banned sportsbooks from employing the term “risk-free” in early February. This constraint pertains to both advertising by the league and team-controlled platforms. Moreover, FanDuel recently began using “sweat-free” as a replacement for “risk-free.”

Other sportsbook operators that no longer employ this language include the following:

• BetMGM
• DraftKings
• Caesars

A pair of notable universities have already cut ties with sportsbooks in the wake of the suspicious sports betting activity. For one, Michigan State’s partnership with Caesars Sportsbook just concluded — four years ahead of schedule. Per the Lansing State Journal, the deal with Caesars was worth roughly $9 million to MSU.

“Initially, it was a good thing, but I don’t think it’s in our best interest moving forward,” MSU athletic director Alan Haller said.

In March, Colorado and PointsBet Sportsbook terminated the contract of their partnership. The university reportedly took in $30 every time a customer signed up with PointsBet. It received the same amount when users placed wagers as well.

Editor’s note: LSU also ended a high-profile deal with Caesars Sportsbook.

Responsible Gambling Hotline

If you or anyone you know has a gambling problem, please don’t hesitate to contact 1-800-GAMBLER.

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