Massachusetts Regulator Calls for Federal Oversight of U.S. Gambling

Maynard, appointed to the commission in 2022 and named permanent chair last fall, believes the current state-by-state system leaves gaps that are easily exploited. “Regulators are who put the seatbelt dingers in,” he said. “We’re not going to prevent every crash … but we’re going to make sure people are educated and held to high standards.”

Fragmented Oversight Amid Rapid Expansion

Since the 2018 Supreme Court decision allowing states to legalize sports betting, 37 have done so. Operators have poured money into attracting s while resisting many proposed regulations. Maynard emphasized the risks of such unchecked growth. “We’re really early on in this process,” he said.

He’s particularly concerned that problem gamblers can evade self-exclusion programs simply by betting in another state. A national list, he argued, is “ripe for a federal conversation.”

Industry Pushback and Public Tensions

Maynard’s stance has led to friction with operators. In 2024, ten companies backed out of a public roundtable on betting limits, opting for a private meeting. “Transparency is key to integrity,” he said at the time. Reflecting later, he noted, “They were worried about having the conversation in public.”

Despite this, Maynard insists he’s open to cooperation. “I do want to construct a partnership,” he said. “But there is a [need to be] regulated, and there is a regulator.”

Operators often argue that stricter rules will push bettors to offshore platforms. Maynard rejects this narrative: “I don’t like the unregulated market being used as the boogeyman … I don’t want the legal market to race to be the illegal market.”

Technology and Consumer Protection

Maynard sees potential in using artificial intelligence to responsible gambling. “If operators are using technology to target bettors, that technology can be used to promote healthy behaviors,” he said.

He pointed to the rollout of weapons detectors at Massachusetts casinos — initially opposed by operators — as an example of beneficial regulation. “It created friction,” he acknowledged, “but I think a vast majority of patrons would say that friction is well worth it.”

Concerns Over Underage Gambling

Rising underage betting, especially on campuses, is another concern. Maynard believes education efforts are more effective when led by public figures.“No kid wants to hear me lecture them,” he said. “But when athletes get involved, when the leagues get involved … that’s where we can see some changes.”

Despite obstacles, Maynard remains committed. “There are days I don’t know if anyone cares about what we’re doing,” he itted. Still, he adds, “When I lay down, I sleep really well.”

Source:

“Booming US gambling industry a ‘highway without speed limits’, top regulator warns”, theguardian.com Jun 8, 2025