New Jersey Lawmaker Proposes Ban on Micro Betting to Curb Gambling Risks
Micro bets allow players to wager on moment-to-moment actions during sporting events, such as the outcome of the next pitch or football play.
New Jersey Assemblyman Dan Hutchison has introduced Assembly Bill 5971, a proposal that seeks to ban micro betting—a fast-paced form of live wagering—due to its links to impulsive gambling behaviour and integrity concerns.
Micro bets allow players to wager on moment-to-moment actions during sporting events, such as the outcome of the next pitch or football play. Hutchison argues that this structure “is inherently designed to foster compulsive behaviour” and poses a heightened risk of addiction and manipulation.
If passed, the bill would prohibit sportsbooks from offering or accepting micro bets during live events, defining them as wagers on the next discrete action or play. These are distinct from traditional in-game bets like quarter scores or player stats.
The legislation also responds to rising match-fixing fears, noting that individual-action bets are more vulnerable to abuse. Hutchison’s proposal has been endorsed by problem gambling groups, including the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, which reported a 277% spike in helpline calls since sports betting was legalised.
Violations would be treated as disorderly persons offences, with fines ranging from $500 to $1,000 per infraction. Hutchison clarified the bill aims to protect players and sport integrity, not dismantle New Jersey’s broader legal betting market.
In other US betting news, Boyd Interactive has added SlotMatrix titles as part of its New Jersey expansion plans.
