Committee member warns betting on odd in‑game decisions could create perverse incentives

A committee member told the joint Senate and House committees that the proposed compact amendments’ prohibition on certain in‑game wagers is important to avoid perverse incentives for athletes and officials.

“If we were to allow wagering on odd decisions within a particular game, it could lead to strange outcomes,” the committee member said, citing a recent controversial play in which a quarterback took a knee on the 1‑yard line to allow a teammate to score on the next play. The member said that example illustrates why the amendment’s language barring wagers tied to in‑game decisions and individual performance is necessary.

Other members and tribal presenters echoed support for the prohibitions as a protective measure to prevent manipulation of play and to limit incentives that could distort the integrity of sporting events. The committee did not take a vote on the amendments at the hearing; the Gambling Commission is taking written comments through Oct. 14 and will consider the item at its Oct. 15 meeting.