The Connection Between Gambling and Sports

Legal sports betting has exposed many individuals at an early age to gambling, prompting experts to express concerns that young people could develop problem gambling behavior later in life.

Treatment and prevention programs often overlook the wider context of gambling, leading to an increase in gambling harm among young adults who use gaming products like video games that simulate gambling activities (commonly referred to as “simulated gambling”).

Legality

Gambling is legal in the United States; indeed, 48 out of 50 states permit some form of gambling activity such as state-run lotteries.

Following the 2018 Supreme Court decision, state governments now have multiple options when it comes to sports betting. Some have legalized online gambling while others limit it solely to land-based casinos.

These jurisdictions have put in place stringent licensing regimes to safeguard game integrity and consumer protection, and have also passed responsible marketing codes to regulate advertising practices.

But while this may be an encouraging step forward, it may come too little too late. With powerful industries already lobbying for liberalized industries and financial interests likely vehemently opposing any attempts to limit profits or tax revenue generated from said industries, such a policy may only succeed in delaying it further.

Social impact

While many enjoy sports for their pleasure and entertainment value, betting can have adverse impacts on society that lead to serious social, economic, and health concerns.

There are various approaches available to governments for dealing with gambling addiction, including banning sports sponsorship by gambling companies and restricting access for minors, increasing taxation on gambling companies and screening and brief interventions for problem gamblers.

These solutions are vital in mitigating the harmful impacts of gambling on communities, but an integrated approach must be taken to truly diminish sports betting as an addictive form of entertainment.

When creating a social impact strategy for your business, take into account how it affects people, products, partners and the environment. Use existing frameworks such as the Sustainable Accounting Standards Board or B Corp to set your goals and measure results or create your own system that fits best with your work and goals.

Taxes

As gambling becomes more mainstream, people are becoming aware of the tax implications associated with their winnings. No matter if betting on sports or playing the lottery is involved; gambling income is considered taxable income by the Internal Revenue Service.

Winnings from casino games, lotteries, raffles, horse races and fantasy sports leagues are taxable and must be reported on your tax return. Non-cash prizes such as cars or trips may also be subject to taxation.

Gambling establishments will generally send you a W-2G statement detailing your taxable winnings along with any withholding you elect when providing your tax information.

However, to deduct gambling losses accurately according to IRS requirements, you’ll need a detailed diary or similar record of your winnings and losses from both online sportsbooks as well as retail sportsbooks – this can easily be accomplished with online sportsbooks while receipts, tickets or similar records might be needed from retail sportsbooks; using both methods allows for accurate tracking.

Regulation

Regulation is the practice by which governments enact rules (commands) to reduce risks to society. At its heart lies those responsible for creating these rules (regulators), those expected to comply (regulated entities), and any measures taken to manage noncompliance and enforce compliance with applicable laws.

Gambling and sports are inextricably linked, and its legality has become increasingly contentious over time.

State lawmakers in several states, such as Connecticut, North Dakota and Iowa have approved sports gambling legislation. Congress is also exploring possible federal oversight.

PASPA was passed in 1992 to counter criminal syndicates that operated sports gambling operations. Unfortunately, in Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association the Supreme Court struck down PASPA leaving an opening for abuse to occur.