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The SAFE Bet Act is a new federal measure that aims to tighten rules on sports betting, and the NFL and NBA are concerned about it. The act, which was introduced by Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY), intends to limit live sports broadcasts and sports betting advertisements during peak hours (8 a.m. to 10 p.m.). It also aims to prohibit betting on specific collegiate athletes and limit live betting, or in-game wagering, which is becoming more and more popular among gamblers.
The leagues acknowledge the act’s intent but oppose certain restrictions. Reports show sportsbooks spent approximately $22.9 million on NFL game ads over the past two weeks, making them top advertising spenders. The NFL and NBA argue that banning these ads could significantly impact their revenue and viewership. The proposed ban on live betting, an integral part of modern sports gambling, has also sparked concern among league officials, who believe it could deter many bettors.
While major sports leagues push back, the NCAA supports parts of the SAFE Bet Act, particularly the prohibition of prop bets on individual college athletes. Currently, 18 of the 38 states with legal sports betting already have such bans in place. The NCAA has long advocated for national regulations to protect game integrity and educate young audiences about the risks of gambling.
Strong supporter of legal sports betting, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver continues to back a federal framework while highlighting the difficulties caused by differing state laws. He contends that a single federal agency would streamline laws and provide a uniform strategy for sports wagering across the country.
Sen. Blumenthal highlighted that the goal of the SAFE Bet Act is to create protections to address the growing problem of gambling addiction rather than to criminalize gambling. The bill’s supporting legislators stress the necessity of federal action to protect vulnerable populations—youth in particular—from the increasing risks connected to popular sports betting.