State Senate Bets on Mobile Sports Wagering Tax Revenue Bill

By Michael V. Cusenza

The State Senate last week voted in favor of a bill that would authorize 1 percent of mobile sports wagering tax revenue to be used to help address problem gambling, according to Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven), sponsor of the proposed law.

Since 2021, the Empire State has quickly become the leading mobile sports betting market, with total wagering in Fiscal Year 2024 netting $898 million for education, $6 million to the Office of Addiction Services and Supports for gambling addiction, and $5 million for youth sports. With the success of mobile sports wagering and an evolving new demographic of users, the system to help prevent addiction must grow along with the industry it supports, Addabbo cautioned. With the 1-percent revenue authorization, OASAS can maintain and expand vital services to prevent and fight problem gambling, he added.

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo
“Part of our tireless work to get mobile sports gaming enacted in New York included ensuring [the State] maintained a strong commitment to providing services and support for gambling addiction,” Sen. Addabbo said.

“Part of our tireless work to get mobile sports gaming enacted in New York included ensuring [the State] maintained a strong commitment to providing services and support for gambling addiction. While I recognize some might lack enthusiasm for mobile sports gaming, I hope everyone can appreciate that many education services and youth sports have sustained because of this additional revenue from our successful mobile gaming. As more individuals participate in mobile sports wagering, this set percentage will make sure funding levels coincide appropriately with any gambling addiction needs,” said Addabbo, chairman of the Senate Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee.

The bill has been delivered to the Assembly Ways and Means Committee for consideration.