Congress scrutinizes sports betting
Dec 17, 2024
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) - Athletes are not only facing pressure in the game but outside of it as well.
"Introduced more stress, new mental health challenges, and has increased the number of threats and incidents of harassment," said former NFL player Johnson Bademosi.
Bademosi testified before lawmakers about the impact sports betting is having on athletes. He's calling for a timeout so lawmakers can huddle up.
"I believe that sports betting can be operated in a way where the integrity of the game is not compromised," Bademosi said.
Illinois Democrat Senator Dick Durbin says sports betting is hurting the game.
"The actual games and cheering for your team become less important. For many individuals," said Durbin.
Right now states regulate sports betting rules. Legislation currently in Congress would create a national standard.
"The nomenclature and the techniques and sophistication of the trading practices here make Wall Street look like child's play," said Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.).
Connecticut Democrat Senator Richard Blumenthal and North Carolina Republican Senator Thom Tillis agree that legislation is needed to regulate sports betting.
"The bad actors are going to exploit more, we're going to destroy a game that I'm a fanatic over," Tillis said.
NCAA President and former Massachusetts governor Charlie Baker says he supports regulations.
"We understand sports betting is here to stay and why it's better to have it regulated than not," said Baker.
The American Gaming Association was not at the hearing that opposes new regulations.
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