New Jersey Bill Seeks to Ban Micro-Betting, Citing Addiction and Integrity Risks

A “Cycle” of Impulsive Wagering

The bill, A5971, was introduced by Democratic Assemblyman Dan Hutchison. It defines a micro-bet as a live proposition wager on the outcome of the next play or action in a sporting event. Hutchison argues these bets create a dangerous cycle of constant, rapid-fire wagering.

“The pace of micro betting is designed to keep people gambling constantly, making one impulsive bet after another with little time to think,” Hutchison said in a statement.

“This bill is a commonsense step to slow that cycle down and protect individuals from the financial and emotional harms that can come with excessive betting.”

Growing Concerns Over Problem Gambling

The push to ban micro-betting comes amid growing concerns about its social impact. Since New Jersey legalized sports betting, calls to the state’s problem gambling helpline have surged by 277%. Advocates fear micro-betting is a major contributor to this trend.

Luis Del Orbe, executive director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, supports the ban. “The evidence underscores that micro betting can accelerate the path to problem gambling, especially among vulnerable populations such as youths and individuals with a history of compulsive gambling,” he said.

Beyond addiction, supporters of the ban also point to major integrity risks. Hutchison noted that micro-bets “are easier to fix than many more traditional forms of wagering” and cited “several reported cases” of athletes being investigated for allegedly altering their play because of such bets.

This concern is shared by major sports leagues. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred recently stated that “certain bet types ‘strike me as unnecessary and particularly vulnerable.'” Hutchison added that by banning micro-bets, New Jersey would be “taking a clear stand against predatory practices that push people toward irresponsible gambling habits.”