Washington State Advances Bill to Restrict Prop Bets on College Athletes

Washington lawmakers are moving forward with efforts to modify sports betting regulations within the state. Senate Bill 6137 (SB 6137) aims to alter how sportsbooks can offer wagers on collegiate sports while adhering to strict state regulations that currently only permit sports betting at tribal casinos. The bill addresses the growing controversy surrounding sports proposition bets.

The state legislature has recently passed SB 6137, and it now awaits the decision of Governor Jay Inslee. This proposed legislation would allow sportsbooks to offer bets on college games, including those featuring in-state teams, but specifically prohibits wagers on individual athletes’ performances at Washington colleges. Historically, Washington has banned all forms of gambling except those explicitly authorized and regulated. The primary goal is to enhance the regulated sports betting industry while maintaining athlete protection.

Proponents of SB 6137 argue that these restrictions are necessary to shield college athletes from undue pressure, while still allowing the regulated market to offer competitive betting options. The bill also seeks to ban bets related to coaching decisions, officiating calls, or other game-management actions involving Washington schools. Additionally, it introduces measures to reinforce integrity, prohibiting the use of insider information for betting, bribing athletes, or influencing game outcomes through financial means. It criminalizes any threats or harassment towards players, coaches, or officials in the context of gambling activities.

The debate over proposition bets is not unique to Washington. Similar discussions are taking place in other states. Massachusetts, for instance, is considering legislation that would ban all proposition and live bets, with the intent to mitigate gambling-related harm, uphold sports integrity, and minimize athlete harassment.

Concerns about proposition markets have been spotlighted by recent integrity issues in professional sports. Notably, Cleveland Guardians players Luis Ortiz and Emmanuel Clase were temporarily suspended amid an investigation into suspicious betting activities related to their games. The probe centered on irregular proposition betting patterns observed across different states. Such high-profile incidents have led regulators and lawmakers to scrutinize the potential risks associated with certain betting markets.

In Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine has highlighted the risks of micro proposition bets, suggesting they could facilitate the manipulation of sports events. As a result, new regulatory measures must strike a balance between maintaining market demand and avoiding increased pressure on athletes.

The evolving landscape of sports betting legislation reflects a broader effort to adapt to new market realities while safeguarding the integrity of sports and the welfare of athletes. As Washington and other states assess their regulatory frameworks, the outcomes could have significant implications for the industry’s future.