If one provision in Virginia’s sports betting regulations remains intact, it may become a common understanding that discussing college sports betting is discouraged in the state.
The proposed rules have a provision that, depending on how it is understood, may prohibit any promotion of collegiate athletic events. If broadly interpreted, this could potentially make Virginia one of the most stringent states in terms of college sports betting regulations.
What the VA sports betting regulations say about advertising
The proposal for the Consumer Protection Program contains an intriguing section, specifically Section 11 VAC 5-80-150.
B. An advertisement promoting sports betting cannot show: <br>1. Minors, except for minor professional athletes <br>2. Students <br>3. Schools or colleges <br>4. Settings related to schools or colleges
From a certain standpoint, the text implies that sportsbook operators are prohibited from using any college or university names or references in their marketing. However, one could argue that this restriction is inconsequential.
The annual NCAA Division 1 men’s basketball championship tournament serves as a great illustration to explain Virginia’s laws on betting on college sports.
Excluding any teams from within the state, Virginia sportsbooks will have the freedom to offer futures markets on the tournament’s winning team.
In the tournament, Virginians are allowed to place bets on any games that do not feature in-state teams. Additionally, Virginia law prohibits proposition bets on college sporting events, regardless of the teams’ origin.
Due to this fact, the extent to which sportsbooks can market college sports markets is already restricted.
The College Football Playoff and March Madness are typically significant occasions for sportsbooks. The way the VA Lottery understands and implements this potential regulation will greatly influence these markets.
The meaning of words is a big deal
When analyzing this rule, the initial query revolves around the lottery’s interpretation of the term “depict.” Does a generic portrayal of a basketball court accompanied by the phrase “March Madness” meet the criteria of an impermissible depiction?
If the lottery takes a broad approach, it would likely prohibit most advertisements promoting college sports betting markets. However, a more specific approach may allow some flexibility for operators.
The following query pertains to determining whether advertising would encompass guarantees against lost bets and odds boosts. Once more, a comprehensive definition may encompass these tactics used to attract bettors to invest in said markets.
Wagering on college sports in VA could potentially resemble black market activity, despite being technically legal to a limited extent, if this particular rule is widely implemented.
Bettors cannot be informed or enticed with market-related guidance or promotions by sportsbooks.
It is crucial to keep in mind that these regulations are currently temporary and subject to change. Additionally, interested parties have the chance to express their opinions on the matter.
Public comment period is now open
At present, the lottery is actively seeking comments from individuals who are interested in these regulations, rather than solely receiving them. All aspects of the rules, not only this specific aspect, can be openly criticized or praised.
During this timeframe, prospective operators have the opportunity to seek clarification regarding this rule or propose alternative phrasing. Such feedback has the potential to result in substantial modifications.
If the current iteration remains intact and is widely enforced, Virginia has the potential to become one of the most stringent markets for college sports betting in the United States.
Currently, interested parties are welcome to provide their input on this matter.
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