A New York state senator has introduced legislation that could ban billboard advertising for gambling and sports betting services across the state.

The proposal, submitted by Democratic Senator Nathalia Fernandez, seeks to prohibit public billboard promotions for gambling-related activities, including sports betting, fantasy sports, lotteries and interactive gaming platforms.

Broad advertising restrictions proposed

The bill would apply to both digital and traditional billboard formats and also extends to advertisements for tobacco, alcohol and vaping products.

Under the proposal, any activity involving wagers or bets for money or items of value would fall under the gambling advertising ban.

Before advancing further, the legislation must first pass through the Senate’s Committee on Consumer Protection.

Alternative proposal focuses on public health messaging

Alongside the primary bill, Fernandez introduced a second proposal that takes a less restrictive approach.

Rather than immediately banning gambling advertisements, the alternative measure would require billboard operators to replace gambling ads with public service announcements about gambling-related harm once existing advertising contracts expire.

New York law already requires gambling billboard advertisements to include responsible gambling messaging and addiction hotline information.

Debate over gambling advertising intensifies

The proposed legislation reflects growing debate across the United States around the visibility of gambling advertising following the rapid expansion of legal sports betting markets.

Several US states already restrict or prohibit gambling-related billboard advertising, while others continue to reassess broader gambling marketing rules amid rising concerns over problem gambling and consumer protection.

Wider regulatory context

The discussion also comes as prediction markets and alternative betting products face increased scrutiny across multiple jurisdictions in the US.

While some regulators and lawmakers view these platforms as gambling products, federal authorities such as the CFTC continue to classify certain prediction markets as financial instruments rather than traditional betting.

Outlook

If approved, the New York proposal would represent one of the most restrictive gambling advertising measures introduced in a major US betting market.

The legislation could also influence broader national discussions around gambling visibility, public health concerns and the future regulation of betting-related advertising.

Sources: CasinoBeats