H.R. 1552: Providing Responsible Oversight and Transparency and Ensuring Collegiate Trust for Student Athletes Act

This bill, known as the Providing Responsible Oversight and Transparency and Ensuring Collegiate Trust for Student Athletes Act, aims to prohibit certain types of sports betting related to student athletes. Here are the key components of the bill:

Purpose of the Bill

The primary goal of this legislation is to protect the integrity and welfare of student athletes by prohibiting bets that hinge on the performance of these athletes in intercollegiate sports. The sponsors of the bill emphasize that this is essential for maintaining a fair and educational environment for students participating in college sports.

Prohibition on Proposition Bets

• The bill prohibits any individual or entity engaged in wagering from accepting "covered prop bets" related to student athletes.
• Covered prop bets are defined as bets on specific actions or achievements by student athletes during intercollegiate sporting events, which may or may not affect the final outcome of the event.

Enforcement Measures

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will be responsible for enforcing the prohibition against covered prop bets. Violations of this section will be treated as unfair or deceptive acts under the Federal Trade Commission Act. The FTC will use its full legal authority to enforce compliance with the bill.

Definition of Key Terms

• Covered Prop Bet: A bet on the performance of a student athlete that does not necessarily affect the final result of the sporting event.
• Intercollegiate Sporting Event: A sporting contest at the collegiate level, with eligibility criteria set by a national association for college athletics.
• Student Athlete: Any individual competing in an intercollegiate sporting event.

Rationale Behind the Bill

The bill is grounded in several findings:

• Sports betting, including on student athletes, is a significant aspect of interstate commerce.
• The economic impact of sports betting on college sports extends beyond state lines, affecting national revenue from advertising and broadcasting.
• Regulating betting practices is deemed essential for the safety and integrity of student athletes' environments.
• The federal government has the constitutional authority to regulate interstate commerce, making federal oversight of this matter appropriate.

Conclusion on Legislation's Impact

This legislation seeks to create a uniform standard for sports betting practices that involve student athletes, with the intention of safeguarding their interests and ensuring the integrity of collegiate sports.

Relevant Companies

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