In response to Governor Kathy Hochul's 2026 State of the State Address, the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) has unveiled a set of draft regulations aimed at safeguarding young residents from online gambling and enhancing overall protections against gambling-related harm.
Published on March 30, the proposed measures include provisions for activity triggers during patron checks, a prohibition on the use of artificial intelligence to target potential gamblers, and the implementation of biometric data for age verification processes, among various other changes.
Governor Hochul emphasized the urgency of these measures, stating, "Mobile sports wagering is everywhere, enticing everyone — including our youth — to place bets without fully considering the consequences." She further stressed the need for robust regulatory frameworks to prevent individuals under 21 from gambling, curb the exploitation of gamblers by AI, and ensure that sports betting operators take meaningful action when customers exhibit signs of gambling-related distress.
During her address, Hochul instructed the NYSGC to prioritize the safety of underage individuals and explore technological solutions to identify and support those affected by gambling harm. She noted that, despite the legal gambling age being set at 21, there is evidence that young people have found ways to circumvent these restrictions.
To tackle these issues, the Commission has released two draft regulations: one focusing on preventing underage gambling (9 NYCRR § 5402.4) and another aimed at promoting responsible gaming (9 NYCRR Part 5404). The NYSGC is currently inviting public feedback on these proposals before finalizing them.
The Commission expects responses from various stakeholders, including the sports betting sector, advocates for responsible gambling, and professionals in problem gambling treatment. Additionally, they are encouraging input from the broader community, such as parent-teacher organizations, educational institutions, and religious groups.
Brian O’Dwyer, Chair of the Gaming Commission, stated, "As Governor Hochul rightly highlighted, no other form of gambling has permeated our culture like sports wagering, and impressionable youth are frequently exposed to it. Following her guidance, we have identified further strategies to protect our young people, assist those in crisis, and ensure that legalized, regulated gaming remains safe for all New Yorkers. We eagerly await public feedback on these significant proposals."