Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal has introduced a legislative proposal in New York aimed at prohibiting in-play sports betting, which is also referred to as live or in-game betting. This development, announced in December 2025, is significant as it highlights the ongoing debate about sports-betting integrity in the United States. The legislation, designated as A.9343, seeks to restrict this popular wager format on both mobile and retail platforms in the state, potentially impacting one of the industry’s rapidly growing sectors.
In-play betting allows wagers to be placed after a sports event has started, encompassing live markets such as in-game spreads and rapid-fire betting tied to specific game states. The proposed bill does not alter the existing mobile licensing structure in New York; however, it could substantially affect the range of services operators can offer within their licenses. This approach to product-level regulation has previously been applied in niche areas, such as specific restrictions on college sports betting in certain jurisdictions, but not on such a widespread market level.
The backdrop to this legislative move involves increasing scrutiny from sports-betting stakeholders, including leagues, regulatory bodies, and operators. Concerns have been raised over the potential for manipulation, or at least the perception of it, particularly when betting on narrowly defined actions that can influence game outcomes. This issue gained heightened attention in late 2025 when pitch-level betting in Major League Baseball (MLB) led to public debate and calls for reform. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, for instance, advocated for sportsbooks to avoid offering certain “micro” markets following allegations involving MLB players, prompting the league to work with operators on restricting these offerings.
New York’s sports-betting market is substantial, characterized by a high-tax environment in which mobile sports betting is subject to a 51% tax on operator revenue. This economic context underscores the importance of handle volume and the mix of engaging bet types to the industry’s financial viability. The introduction of A.9343 may signify a shift in New York’s legislative focus from merely warning consumers about potential risks to actively reevaluating which types of bets should be permissible.
The future of the bill will hinge on several factors, including committee votes, feedback from operators and leagues, and the political calculus of lawmakers regarding the potential impact on wagering volumes. Although sports betting constitutes a significant source of public revenue for New York, the bill’s progress could provide a new benchmark for what strengthened regulatory measures might entail in the coming year.
The implications of this legislative proposal extend beyond New York, potentially influencing national discussions on sports-betting regulation. Even if A.9343 does not advance, its introduction could exert additional pressure on operators by establishing a reference point for more stringent regulatory frameworks. This occurs against a backdrop of increasing media focus on integrity concerns, suggesting a potential trend towards more comprehensive product design scrutiny in the sports-betting industry.
Moving forward, stakeholders will closely monitor the legislative journey of A.9343. Should the bill gain traction, operators may need to prepare for adjustments to their offerings and engage with regulators and lawmakers to align with evolving compliance standards. As the conversation around sports betting continues to evolve, the industry must navigate these regulatory dynamics to ensure both market integrity and economic sustainability.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.
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