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Tennessee lawmakers are weighing new limits on where and when sports betting can take place around college athletics. A bill introduced this week would restrict interactive sports wagering on public college campuses and on days when collegiate sporting events are held.
House Bill 1768 was introduced during the 114th General Assembly by Representative John Clemmons, a Democrat. The proposal reflects growing concern about how mobile sports betting intersects with college athletes, students, and campus life.
Good to Know
The legislation would require licensed sportsbooks to block interactive wagering within defined campus areas at public colleges and universities. The definition of campus goes beyond classroom grounds. It includes nearby student facilities and athletic venues used for sanctioned college events, even if those venues sit off campus or share ownership.
HB 1768 also introduces a full day restriction on betting access when a collegiate athletic event takes place at a covered venue. Sportsbooks would need to block interactive wagering for the entire calendar day, not just during the event itself.
The proposal extends responsibility to public colleges as well. Institutions that provide internet access would need to take technical steps to prevent sports betting through campus Wi-Fi networks during restricted periods. Lawmakers modeled that approach on existing controls schools already use for compliance and safety purposes.
Supporters say the structure reduces real time betting pressure on athletes and lowers the chance of impulsive wagering tied to individual plays or performances.
The bill fits into a broader national discussion around college sports and legalized betting. Lawmakers across several states have raised concerns about harassment of college athletes, the ease of app based betting for students, and integrity risks tied to live and player focused markets.
Rather than rolling back legal sports betting, HB 1768 relies on location based and event based controls. The goal centers on limiting exposure in sensitive environments while keeping the broader market intact.
The bill was formally introduced on January 20, 2026. If passed, it would take effect on July 1, 2026. The next step sends the proposal to committee, where lawmakers will hear from universities, regulators, sportsbook operators, and responsible gaming groups.
No. It only restricts access in specific campus locations and on game days.
Representative John Clemmons.
Sanctioned collegiate athletic events at covered venues.
July 1, 2026, if approved.