BREAKING: Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii has confirmed plans to propose federal legislation in 2026 aimed at regulating sports prop betting across the United States. This urgent move follows a surge in sports betting popularity since the Supreme Court’s pivotal ruling in 2018, which allowed states to legalize the practice independently.
According to journalist Pablo Torre, who reported on X, Schatz is actively engaging with sports leagues, player associations, and sportsbooks as part of this legislative push. He aims to address the growing concerns surrounding prop bets, which allow gamblers to wager on specific events within a game rather than just the final outcome.
“We’re working on legislation to stop the kind of prop betting that gives a single bad actor the ability to manipulate a specific, singular outcome for a big payout,” Schatz stated. He emphasized that this legislation is crucial for protecting fans and restoring public trust in the integrity of sports.
The call for regulation comes at a time when the sports betting industry has rapidly evolved into a billion-dollar market, prompting various stakeholders to seek clarity and oversight. Notably, the NFL has expressed concerns regarding prop bets, issuing a memo to team officials urging collaboration with state lawmakers to limit or prohibit these types of wagers.
In November, Ohio’s Governor Mike DeWine also requested the state’s Casino Control Commission to eliminate prop bets from the legal list of wagering options, highlighting the contentious nature of this betting format.
As the push for regulation gains momentum, it reflects a broader trend where sports organizations and state governments are increasingly scrutinizing the implications of prop betting. The complexities of this issue are further underscored by the varying levels of adoption across different states since the 2018 ruling.
This developing story is significant for millions of sports fans and bettors nationwide, as it could reshape how sports betting operates in the United States. As stakeholders await more details, all eyes will be on Senator Schatz’s proposed legislation and its potential impact on the future of sports betting.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
