S.1033 - Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet Act of 2025; SAFE Bet Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The SAFE Bet Act aims to establish federal standards for sports betting, allowing states to opt-in by creating programs that meet specific criteria approved by the Attorney General. It addresses consumer protection, responsible gaming, and contest integrity. The act also includes provisions for public health research and surveillance related to gambling disorder.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would create a framework for legalized sports betting across the US, with federal oversight and state-level implementation. This could lead to increased revenue for states, but also increased regulation and potential restrictions on betting practices. It also establishes a national self-exclusion list and requires annual surveys on online sports betting.
Potential Benefits
- Increased state revenue through sports wagering taxes.
- Enhanced consumer protection measures, including self-exclusion lists and affordability checks.
- Funding for gambling disorder treatment and education.
- Standardized regulations across states that opt-in, reducing inconsistencies.
- Data collection and research on the public health impacts of sports betting.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased gambling addiction and related social costs.
- Restrictions on advertising and bonus programs for sports wagering operators.
- Federal oversight may infringe on state autonomy.
- Compliance costs for sports wagering operators.
- Possible limitations on individual betting freedoms due to affordability checks and other restrictions.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is primarily based on the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By establishing federal standards for sports betting that can cross state lines, the bill attempts to regulate this form of commerce. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, and this bill attempts to balance federal oversight with state autonomy by allowing states to opt-in and administer their own sports wagering programs subject to federal standards.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).