Massachusetts has launched a new initiative to protect athletes from harassment by sports bettors, allowing regulators to exclude offenders from betting and casinos across the state.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has introduced the “Bet on Respect” program, which enables sports leagues, players’ associations, college athletic programs, and venues to report suspected harassment of athletes, whether online or in person. This initiative aims to reduce intimidation and abuse linked to sports wagering.
Under state gaming regulation 205 CMR 152, the MGC can involuntarily exclude individuals from all licensed gaming establishments and sports betting platforms if their behavior threatens public trust, safety, or the integrity of gaming and sports. This exclusion list previously targeted cheaters and those violating gaming laws but now includes bettors who harass athletes.
Reports of harassment can be submitted through a dedicated portal, where the MGC’s Investigations and Enforcement Bureau (IEB) evaluates the evidence. The bureau may conduct further investigations, dismiss the report if it does not meet criteria, or initiate the exclusion process if harassment is confirmed. Bettors placed on the exclusion list receive a notification letter and have 30 days to appeal the decision.
The MGC emphasized the importance of protecting athletes, with Chairman Jordan Maynard stating, “Athletes, officials, and others associated with games being wagered on deserve to be free of intimidation during and surrounding competition.” He added, “While this tool will be impactful, we hope its use will be limited as patrons will know right from wrong.“
This program responds to research highlighting the extent of athlete abuse. An NCAA study cited by the MGC found that 51% of Division 1 men’s basketball players have faced online abuse related to their performance, with 46% linking it directly to gambling.
Major sports teams and leagues supporting the initiative include the Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, New England Revolution, Boston Legacy FC, and the NCAA. Leading sportsbooks and casinos such as FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Entertainment, DraftKings, MGM Springfield, Bally Bet, Encore Boston Harbor, Fanatics Betting and Gaming, Penn Entertainment, and Plainridge Park Casino have also backed the effort. FanDuel expressed support on social media, stating, “FanDuel is proud to support the (MGC’s) Bet on Respect initiative and its efforts to address athlete harassment.”
For players and bettors, this means increased accountability and a safer environment surrounding sports wagering. Those who engage in abusive conduct toward athletes risk losing access to betting platforms and casinos in Massachusetts, reinforcing responsible behavior.
The initiative aligns with similar measures in other states. In 2024, West Virginia passed legislation granting its lottery commission authority to ban bettors who harass sports participants. These efforts reflect a growing recognition of the need to protect athletes from harassment linked to gambling activity.
Sports bettors in Massachusetts should be aware that harassment of athletes can lead to exclusion from betting and casino venues. This initiative highlights the importance of respectful conduct and aims to reduce harmful interactions between bettors and sports figures.
More information on the Bet on Respect program is available on the Massachusetts Gaming Commission website. For broader context on sports betting regulations and player protections, visit our Sports Betting and Responsible Gambling sections.
Source: CDC Gaming.
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