Addabbo Bill Authorizing One Percent Of Mobile Sports Tax Revenue for Problem Gambling Approved by NYS Senate

Queens, NY (June 5, 2024): On Wednesday, June 5, the NYS Senate approved bill S.8439, sponsored by the chair of the NYS Senate Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee, Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., authorizing one percent of mobile sports tax revenue for problem gambling.

“Part of our tireless work to get mobile sports gaming enacted in New York included ensuring NYS maintained a strong commitment to providing services and support for gambling addiction,” stated Addabbo. “My bill solidifies that promise by ensuring annual funding is allocated to the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) for gambling addiction,” Addabbo added.

New York State has quickly become the leading mobile sports market, with total wagering in Fiscal Year 2024 netting $898 million for education, $6 million to OASAS for gambling addiction, and $5 million for youth sports. With the success of mobile sports wagering and an evolving new demographic of users, the system to help prevent addiction must grow along with the industry it supports. With the one percent revenue authorization, OASAS can maintain and expand vital services to prevent and fight problem gambling.

“While I recognize some might lack enthusiasm for mobile sports gaming, I hope everyone can appreciate that many education services and youth sports have sustained because of this additional revenue from our successful mobile gaming. As more individuals participate in mobile sports wagering, this set percentage will make sure funding levels coincide appropriately with any gambling addiction needs,” Addabbo concluded.

The bill was delivered to the Assembly Ways and Means Committee for consideration after approval by the Senate.