Bipartisan bill aims to curb sports betting in Colorado
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- A new bill aimed at placing heavier restrictions on sports betting apps has passed the state legislature with bipartisan support. Governor Jared Polis is set to review the legislation, which seeks to curb problem gambling in Colorado.
The proposed bill limits deposits on sports betting apps to six per day. It also includes a ban on using credit cards for placing bets and prohibits push notifications from these applications.
Jamie Glick, executive director of the Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado, believes the state is working to address prior oversights. "I think we're doing a bit of a course correct and realizing that maybe all the safeguards weren't in place," Glick said. "And so I think we're working to correct that now. And I think it is going to get national attention."
Glick also highlighted the impact of gambling-related debt, particularly in supporting the ban on credit card use. "Most people who reach out for help, have reached out because they have significant debt," Glick said. "Not just cleaning out their bank account, they have credit card debt, they have home equity lines of credit. They've used student loans. That comes with a strong feeling of hopelessness."
Gambling counselor Kristen Haflett supports the ban on push notifications, noting their negative effect on individuals in recovery. "I think that's a pretty big deal," Haflett said. "My clients who are in recovery from gambling addiction still get push notifications. It's like getting the flyer in the mail from the casino, hey, here's free play. It entices people. It's right there in your face. Now, without them, it'll be a benefit."
However, not everyone agrees with the new restrictions. Sports betting analyst Benjamin Allbright voiced concerns about personal financial autonomy. "I have a big problem with anybody telling me what I can or cannot do with my money," Allbright said. "It's my money. I can do what I want with it. If I choose to...wager it that's entirely up to me, but at the same time I don't I really...like any bill that curb my personal Freedom."
The Sports Betting Alliance is also encouraging people to advocate against the law on its website. Despite these new restrictions, certain types of wagers remain permissible. Prop bets, which allow betting on specific aspects of a game such as how many touchdowns a player will have, are still allowed under the proposed legislation. Additionally, the bill does not impose a limit on the amount of money a person can deposit in a single transaction.
Governor Polis is now reviewing the bill.
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