Senate minority leader advocates federal sports betting framework
MLB, NBA and PGA voice their support for proposals, which include data restrictions
US Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer has called for a federal framework to address the issue of sports betting in the post-PASPA world.
In a document entitled “Protecting the Games We Love After Murphy v. NCAA,” Schumer calls for a unified federal standard which will “protect consumers and the sports games themselves from corruption.”
In an interview with ESPN.com Schumer said it was incumbent on the federal government to take a leadership role and provide the necessary guidance to “prevent uncertainty and confusion for the leagues, state governments, consumers and fans alike”.
Crucially, Schumer argues only official league data should be used by operators, with leagues also having a say in what types of bets are offered.
Following publication of the proposals, the NBA, MLB, and PGA sporting associations voiced their support for Schumer’s plan issuing a joint statement saying “As legalized sports betting spreads across the states, there is a need for consistent, nationwide integrity standards to safeguard the sports millions of fans love. We strongly support the legislative framework outlined by Senator Schumer and we encourage Congress to adopt it.”
However, others including questioned the timing and motivation of Schumer’s proposal:
Can't help but notice the obvious: NFL, other leagues are HQ'd in Schumer's NY. Likely that this late lobbying effort is intended to give states pause ahead of the 2019 legislative season. https://t.co/6MpDYDcIJR
— Chris Krafcik (@CKrafcik) August 29, 2018
American Gaming Association senior vice president Sarah Slane welcomed efforts aimed at “preserving the integrity of sporting events and providing consumer protections” but questioned the need for government involvement, adding: “Federal oversight of sports betting was an abject failure for 26 years only contributing to a thriving illegal market with no consumer protections and safeguards. New federal mandates are a nonstarter.”