The lack of betting on college sports in a Senate version of the sports betting bill has stymied approval of the legislation in Massachusetts. House Speaker Ron Mariano called the omission a deal breaker as both chambers have to negotiate their differences.
The Senate version included consumer protections intended to curb problem gaming, which Mariano described as “well-intentioned.” But the lack of college sports betting will drive people to the illegal market which has no such restrictions.
“There’s no bookie I know that’ll check you into a rehab to help you beat your gaming addiction,” Mariano said. “There’s no bookie in the world that’s going to give you an extension on what you owe because you have a gaming problem.”
Mariano made his remarks at a Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce forum. The Senate version of the bill bans the use of credit cards to place bets, a restriction that baffles the Speaker. The legislation also limits advertising and creates a compulsive gambling program.
“This bill implements robust preventive measures for problem gambling and provides significant support for consumers who find themselves in over their heads,” Senate Ways and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues said last month.
Sports betting conference committee members include Reps. Jerry Parisella, Aaron Michlewitz and David Muradian, as well as Senators Rodrigues, Eric Lesser and Patrick O’Connor.
Rodrigues’ office told MassLive the first conference committee meeting has yet to be scheduled.
