Statement from the iDevelopment and Economic Association (iDEA) on the SAFE Bet Act
As a leading trade association representing the interests of the growing and highly regulated U.S. online gaming and sports betting industry, iDEA is deeply concerned by the introduction of the SAFE Bet Act. While we strongly support efforts to promote responsible gaming and player protections, this legislation represents an unnecessary and harmful federal overreach into an area that has been successfully regulated at the state level since the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the federal sports betting ban in 2018.
iDEA remains committed to working with lawmakers, regulators, and stakeholders to enhance player protections in a way that empowers states and preserves the benefits of a well-regulated, competitive market. We urge Congress to reject this misguided federal mandate and instead support state-based solutions that are already working across the country.
The SAFE Bet Act’s blanket, one-size-fits-all requirements on advertising, affordability checks, and artificial intelligence stifle the autonomy of states and tribal governments, many of which have implemented their own robust regulatory frameworks tailored to the needs of their constituents. These measures not only infringe on states’ rights but also risk undermining the operational flexibility that has allowed the legal sports betting industry to thrive, create jobs, and generate critical tax revenue that supports education, infrastructure, and other vital services.
The bill’s prohibition on certain promotions and the use of AI technologies ignores the importance of innovation in creating a secure and safe environment for sports bettors. By restricting legitimate tools used by operators to ensure the safety of players and enhance the user experience, the federal government risks pushing more consumers toward unregulated, illegal markets—where no safeguards exist.
Instead of imposing unnecessary restrictions on legal, state-licensed sport betting operators, Congress should use its power to collaborate with states to shut down illegal offshore sportsbooks that brazenly defy federal law.
To schedule an interview with iDEA Founder and General Counsel Jeff Ifrah on the SAFE Bet Act, please contact Denise Nix at denise@ideagrowth.com.
iDEA Growth (iDevelopment and Economic Association) is a 501c6 association seeking to grow jobs and expand online interactive entertainment business in the United States through advocacy and education. iDEA provides the latest industry news, updates and legislative activity on the expansion of iGaming into the United States and its significant economic benefits. iDEA serves as a resource to the media, elected officials, and the public.