In an effort to address the evolving landscape of sports betting across the United States, Congressman Paul D. Tonko of New York and Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut have reintroduced the SAFE Bet Act. The act, formally known as the Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet Act, aims to tackle the public health risks associated with legalized gambling.
As of 2025, sports betting is legal in 39 states and the District of Columbia. However, Congressman Tonko and Senator Blumenthal argue that sufficient safeguards are not yet in place to address the societal impact.
The new legislation, first proposed in September 2024, seeks to establish federal standards addressing pressing issues such as advertising, affordability, and using artificial intelligence in gambling.
Public Health Advocacy Institute Supports The Move
Dr. Harry Levant, Director of Gambling Policy at The Public Health Advocacy Institute, expressed concerns over the rapid growth of the gambling industry. He emphasized the need for comprehensive public health solutions, stating, "The rapid and unprecedented expansion of the gambling industry has resulted in a public health crisis the scope of which we are only beginning to recognize."
Dr. Levant highlighted troubling collaborations between the gambling industry and professional sports, media, and technology sectors. "Gambling is a known addictive product," he added, "and the 2025 SAFE Bet Act protects the public by replacing the ethically flawed 'responsible gaming' model with comprehensive public health solutions designed to prevent gambling-related harm."
The SAFE Bet Act proposes a system where states seeking to offer legal sports betting must apply to the federal government through the U.S. attorney general. Applicants will have to meet specific requirements, and approved applications will remain valid for three years. Remarkably, the proposal suggests that no application fee would be imposed.
March Shines a Light on Problem Gambling Awareness
The timing of the proposal's revival is strategic, coinciding with the onset of March Madness, the NCAA men's basketball tournament—a period notoriously connected with heightened betting activity. Congressman Tonko remarked, "We’re here today because the government, at every level, has failed to pay attention to or understand the impact of gambling-related harms."
Every March, the nation comes together for Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a campaign that aims to raise awareness about problem gambling. This grassroots effort focuses on spreading the word about the dangers of gambling addiction and highlighting options for prevention, treatment, and recovery.
One of the main goals of this month-long campaign is to inform the public about the availability of services that can help those struggling with problem gambling. Additionally, the initiative encourages healthcare providers to screen their clients for signs of gambling addiction, ensuring early intervention and support for affected individuals. By focusing on education and resources, Problem Gambling Awareness Month strives to create a more informed and supportive community for those in need.
SAFE Bet Act Attempts To Protect Public Health
While Tonko and Blumenthal assert that they do not intend to hinder the industry's financial growth or restrict Americans' freedom to bet, their focus remains on safeguarding public health and ensuring that the rapid expansion of this industry does not come at a societal cost.
As discussions continue on Capitol Hill, all eyes will be on the potential passage of this piece of legislation.
