New Jersey is advancing legislation to prohibit player-specific proposition bets on collegiate sports. The move, led by Assemblyman Sterley Stanley, aims to protect student-athletes from harassment and preserve the integrity of college sports. The legislation aligns with broader efforts by the NCAA and other states to address this issue.

• Purpose of the legislation – The bill, A4905, prohibits betting on individual player statistics in college sports. This ban targets proposition bets, such as wagers on a player’s scoring or performance. Assemblyman Stanley emphasized that the law is necessary to protect student-athletes from undue stress and harassment.
• NCAA’s support for action – NCAA President Charlie Baker has called for measures to reduce harassment linked to sports betting. A recent NCAA study exposed alarming levels of abusive and threatening comments on social media targeting athletes and coaches. The findings highlighted the urgent need to safeguard the mental health and integrity of college athletes.
• Assemblyman Stanley’s statement – Stanley, a supporter of sports betting, expressed concern over how prop bets intensify pressures on athletes. He noted that student-athletes already balance intense academic and athletic responsibilities. Adding harassment from problem gamblers, he said, is unacceptable and detrimental to their well-being.
• Definition of proposition bets – A proposition bet involves side wagers unrelated to the game’s outcome, such as player statistics or specific events. The bill would restrict these bets on college games to prevent further gambling-related harassment. Stanley’s proposal seeks to reduce the risks associated with these high-pressure wagers.
• Harassment experiences of athletes – Athletes like Armando Bacot of the University of North Carolina have shared disturbing stories about betting-related harassment. Bacot recalled receiving over 100 angry messages after a game where prop bets failed to hit expectations. This highlights the harmful personal impact of these wagers on young athletes.
• Similar actions in other states – States like Ohio, Maryland, and Vermont have already implemented restrictions or bans on player-specific proposition bets. These efforts show a growing consensus about protecting athletes from gambling-induced abuse. New Jersey’s legislation aligns with these proactive measures.
• Broader implications – This legislation demonstrates New Jersey’s commitment to responsible sports betting practices. As one of the first states to legalize sports gambling, it aims to set a positive example. The bill reflects a balance between supporting the betting industry and prioritizing the welfare of student-athletes.