Does banning credit cards deposits at online casinos and sportsbooks actually reduce problem gambling? Are land-based casinos conspiring to back a nationwide credit card deposit ban? These are some of the questions that were discussed at a recent hearing to discuss legislation backed by the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS), a gaming industry lobbying group.
Though a number of subjects were discussed at the hearing, the issue of credit card bans received the lion’s share of attention from lawmakers and representatives from the gaming industry.
Most of the hearing’s attendees and speakers argued against credit card bans, including Former Director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement David Rebuck. Redbuck, who is recognized as a gaming industry pioneer, spoke out against blanket bans in comments reported on by SBC Americas saying, “A one size fits all, maximum amount of money that can be wagered is not supported by evidence today. The ban on credit cards is also not supported by evidence and research today.”
Given the prevalence of credit and debit cards in society at large, it’s difficult to see a nationwide credit card ban gaining any traction. Most states with regulated sports betting do allow the use of credit cards and many lawmakers don’t see any alternative to that system. New Hampshire Senator Tim Lang pointed out that a gaming bill with credit cards would go nowhere in his state adding, “If I was to allow credit cards. Bill will be die on the spot. It wouldn’t go any further at all,” he argued. “So while data may suggest otherwise, if the legislators in the room will want to elect again, and wants the actual bill passed…you put credit cards in and that will get your bill killed in most states.”
Though the committee didn’t draw any conclusions, it seems clear that credit cards will remain a big part of online gambling for the foreseeable future.