New Jersey lawmaker seeks micro-betting ban
Assemblyman Dan Hutchison wants fines of up to $1,000 enforced for operators breaching the rule if bill is signed into law
A New Jersey lawmaker has looked to introduce a bill that would ban sportsbooks from offering micro-betting markets, with the threat of fines looming should the legislation progress into law.
Such bets involve players making wagers on markets like the next point in tennis, pitch in baseball, or play in football.
Micro-betting markets are in-play markets and have continued to grow in popularity in recent year.
As per Bill A5971, put forward by Democratic Assemblyman Dan Hutchison on July 25, micro-bets are defined as “a proposition bet placed live during a sporting event that relates to the outcome of the next play or action.”
In an attempt to ensure that New Jersey operators refrain from offering such markets, were the bill to pass, those caught breaking the law would receive a disorderly person’s offense, as well as a fine ranging from $500 to $1,000.
According to a press release from Hutchinson, outlawing the method of wagering would serve as a means of player protection.
“The pace of micro-betting is designed to keep people gambling constantly, making one impulsive bet after another with little time to think,” he explained.
“This bill is a commonsense step to slow that cycle down and protect individuals from the financial and emotional harms that can come with excessive betting.”
The same press release noted that, according to Hutchinson, micro-betting is more susceptible to match-fixing than more traditional forms of wagering.
“This legislation isn’t about banning sports betting. It’s about setting boundaries to ensure it’s done responsibly,” he added.
“By banning micro bets, we would be taking a clear stand against predatory practices that push people toward irresponsible gambling habits.”
The prospect of Hutchinson’s bill being signed into law would serve as a blow to operators, including DraftKings, which acquired micro-betting supplier SimpleBet in August 2024.
Hutchinson’s sentiments on the topic are shared by Luis Del Orbe, executive director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, who said young players are more vulnerable to gambling-related harm.
“The evidence underscores that micro-betting can accelerate the path to problem gambling, especially among vulnerable populations such as youths and individuals with a history of compulsive gambling,” Del Orbe noted.
“By eliminating micro-betting, this legislation would take an essential step toward protecting citizens from the harmful effects of reckless gambling practices.”
Hutchinson’s comments come at a time when New Jersey lawmakers have already pushed for significant legislation changes in recent weeks, including a tax hike for both the sports betting and igaming verticals.