Against the Rules with Michael Lewis
Sen. Richard Blumenthal on the SAFE Bet Act
Feb 11, 2025
Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democratic U.S. senator from Connecticut, dives into the urgent need for regulating sports gambling through the SAFE Bet Act. He highlights the act's focus on curbing gambling advertisements and funding treatment for addiction, painting a vivid picture of sports gambling as a potential public health crisis. Blumenthal discusses the shifting landscape of sports betting and the parallels it shares with the tobacco industry, emphasizing the importance of consumer protection and accountability in an increasingly tempting environment.
29:58
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Quick takeaways
- Senator Blumenthal's SAFE Bet Act seeks to regulate sports gambling through advertising restrictions and funding for addiction treatment, addressing public health concerns.
- The legislation emphasizes responsible gambling practices by tackling exploitative marketing tactics and the use of AI to target vulnerable bettors, particularly the youth.
Deep dives
The Rise of Sports Betting in America
The legalization of sports betting in the U.S. has evolved dramatically from its near-total ban under PASPA to becoming a significant industry. In 2018, the Supreme Court overturned PASPA, resulting in 39 states permitting sports betting, which was once considered a closed issue. This shift has led to various social issues, including gambling addiction and exploitation of vulnerable groups such as underage bettors and college athletes. As the conversation around sports betting expands, the focus now is on the potential public health implications associated with its rapid growth.
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