Federal legislation may soon target sports prop betting in the United States. Senator Brian Schatz from Hawaii is reportedly preparing to introduce a bill in 2026 aimed at regulating this form of gambling. Journalist Pablo Torre, known for his work on “Pablo Torre Finds Out,” revealed via social media that discussions are underway between the senator, sports leagues, player associations, and sportsbooks to create comprehensive regulations.
According to Torre, Senator Schatz is particularly focused on ensuring that illegal offshore sportsbooks are included in this federal legislation. This potential move comes as sports betting in the U.S. has rapidly expanded since the Supreme Court’s decision in 2018 that overturned the federal ban, allowing states to regulate sports betting independently.
Controversy Surrounding Prop Betting
Prop betting, which allows customers to wager on specific events within a game rather than the final outcome, has faced significant scrutiny. As the industry grows, concerns have arisen regarding its potential for manipulation and exploitation. In response to these worries, the NFL issued a memo in November urging teams to collaborate with lawmakers and regulators to limit prop bets, emphasizing the need to protect the integrity of the game.
Earlier this year, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine also expressed his concerns, requesting the Casino Control Commission to remove prop bets from the list of legal wagers allowed under state regulations. These actions highlight a growing recognition of the risks associated with prop betting and the need for regulatory measures.
In a statement to Torre, Senator Schatz underscored the rapid growth of sports betting into a billion-dollar industry. He stated, “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. This is about protecting fans and restoring public trust in sports.”
The Future of Sports Betting Regulation
As the conversation around sports betting continues to evolve, the proposed legislation by Senator Schatz represents a significant step toward addressing the concerns surrounding prop bets. The potential regulations could reshape the landscape of sports wagering in the United States, aiming to safeguard both consumers and the integrity of professional sports.
While discussions are still in the early stages, the collaboration between lawmakers, sports organizations, and betting companies indicates a concerted effort to establish a framework that balances the growth of the industry with necessary protections.
As the industry faces increasing scrutiny, the outcome of these legislative efforts could have lasting implications for sports betting in the U.S., determining how it operates and is regulated in the years to come.
ReadWrite has reached out to Senator Brian Schatz’s office for further comments on the proposed legislation.
