New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is calling for stronger safeguards to keep minors away from gambling, highlighting the growing concern over underage access to online sports betting. In her 2026 State of the State address, Hochul emphasized the need to protect young people from gambling addiction by tightening age verification processes for online platforms.
Biometric Verification and Account Security
Hochul’s written plan urges the state’s Gaming Commission to explore innovative ways to confirm that only adults are logging into betting apps, including the use of biometric data. The initiative aims to prevent minors from downloading gambling apps, creating accounts, or using accounts belonging to others. Reports from ESPN indicate that the Gaming Commission has observed a rising number of minors opening sports betting accounts, sometimes with help from parents or friends over 21.
Proposal for a Gambling Health Institute
The governor also wants to address gambling addiction through public health measures. Her proposals include banning AI-driven personalized messages designed to encourage excessive betting, establishing a Gambling Health Institute, and conducting a 10-year study on gambling behavior and prevention strategies.
The New York Gaming Commission has expressed support for these initiatives. Chairman Brian O’Dwyer noted the commission will consider measures such as biometric verification and stricter consequences for adults who allow minors to use their accounts.
Industry and Legislative Response
Industry groups like the Sports Betting Alliance have praised Hochul’s plans, emphasizing collaboration to combat illegal gambling operators that target vulnerable populations.
These efforts come as New York’s sports betting market continues to expand. In 2025, online bettors wagered more than $26.2 billion, generating nearly $1.3 billion in tax revenue for the state.
Meanwhile, lawmakers like Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. are preparing to reintroduce proposals to legalize online casinos, potentially leveraging the current focus on responsible gambling and public safety as momentum for new legislation.
Governor Hochul’s proposals mark a significant push to combine technology, regulation, and public health initiatives to curb underage gambling and ensure safer gaming practices across New York.
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