Wyoming Considers Alternatives to College Prop Bet Ban
Wyoming has recognized the need to combat gambling-related harassment of college athletes but is looking for solutions other than banning college prop bets.
Wyoming seeks alternative to banning college sport prop bets.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The issue of prop betting in college sports has caused a great deal of debate in the US, with some experts calling for a ban as a solution to the problem of athletes being harassed by gamblers. The NCAA has been a prominent supporter of a ban and called on states to protect college athletes by prohibiting prop bets.
The Wyoming Gaming Commission (WGC) has reviewed the issue but couldn’t reach a consensus. While recognizing the potential benefits of banning college player props, the commissioners also noted that such a ban may not eradicate player harassment.
Furthermore, the commission considered the possible impact on the industry, including the risk of driving regular bettors to the black market. Scott Ward, a lobbyist for the Sports Betting Alliance (SBA), highlighted the fact that offshore operators would likely ignore the ban, attracting those interested in placing such wagers.
WGC Considers Two Solutions
The WGC examined two possible approaches, dubbed the Ohio Solution and the Iowa Solution. The Ohio Solution involves a complete ban on college prop bets, while the Iowa Solution would only restrict wagers on in-state college athletes.
Michael Steinberg, the operations manager who presented these options believes that something must be done but is unsure whether a ban would effectively address harassment. He mentioned discussions with the NCAA, in which the organization provided no concrete data but insisted that Ohio’s ban positively impacted the market.
Steinberg also referenced a meeting with University of Wyoming representatives, who pointed out that not all harassment cases are linked to betting.
More Regulation News
The Wait and See Approach
Ultimately, the commissioners concluded that a ban on college athlete props might not be the best approach. They are considering other measures, such as implementing rules against harassment, similar to those in Ohio and West Virginia.
For now, Wyoming commissioners decided to observe the situation before taking any action. Meanwhile, states such as Illinois, Iowa, and Rhode Island have banned college athlete props as advised by the NCAA. A similar bill in North Carolina failed in committee, while Montana chose to seek alternative solutions.
RELATED TOPICS: Regulation
Latest News
Most Read
Must Read
Interviews
Review this New Post
Leave a Comment
User Comments
Comments for Wyoming Considers Alternatives to College Prop Bet Ban