Key Takeaways
- Colorado’s SB 26-131 passed the House with strong bipartisan support
- The proposal would prohibit sportsbook credit card deposits and certain advertising practices
- Gov. Jared Polis could soon receive the bill for final approval
Colorado lawmakers moved another step closer to approving a major responsible gaming measure after SB 26-131 passed through the House by a 50-13 margin. The legislation contains several new restrictions tied to online sports betting operations, including advertising limitations, tighter deposit rules, and a ban on using credit cards to fund sportsbook accounts.
With the legislative session nearing its conclusion, the bill now appears positioned for final procedural steps before potentially reaching Gov. Jared Polis for consideration.
Proposed Changes Would Impact Sportsbook Operations
SB 26-131 introduces a wide range of updates connected to regulated sports betting and gambling advertising within Colorado.
One of the most significant provisions would eliminate credit card deposits for online sportsbook accounts. Supporters of the measure argue that removing access to borrowed funds could help reduce financial risks associated with problem gambling behavior.
The legislation would also place new limits on sportsbook marketing tactics. Operators would no longer be permitted to send push notifications encouraging additional deposits or wagering activity through mobile betting apps. Lawmakers included the restriction as part of a broader effort to reduce aggressive user retention strategies commonly used by sportsbooks.
Advertising regulations would tighten as well under the proposal. Sportsbooks and affiliate companies would be prohibited from running advertisements across television, radio, digital media, print, and cable platforms when the audience is expected to primarily consist of individuals under the age of 21.
Deposit Rules Also Receiving Adjustments
The bill would additionally modify Colorado’s current sportsbook deposit limits. Bettors would be allowed to make up to six deposits during a 24-hour period, slightly higher than the existing five-deposit threshold.
Although the proposal increases the number of permitted transactions, it still avoids setting a cap on total deposit amounts. Lawmakers appear to be attempting to strike a middle ground between consumer flexibility and additional responsible gaming safeguards.
If enacted, the law would become effective 90 days after the legislative session officially adjourns, potentially placing implementation sometime in August.
Responsible Gaming Push Continues Nationwide
Colorado’s proposal reflects a larger national trend toward expanding responsible gaming protections throughout the legal sports betting industry. Regulators and lawmakers across the United States have increasingly focused on limiting aggressive sportsbook marketing, strengthening consumer protections, and addressing concerns surrounding gambling addiction.
Many of the provisions included in SB 26-131 directly target those broader industry concerns. Restrictions on advertising exposure, credit card funding, and promotional notifications have become increasingly common discussion points among regulators in multiple states.
Because the bill has already cleared both legislative chambers with strong support, it appears to have a favorable path toward final approval. The overwhelming House vote also highlights growing bipartisan backing for stricter responsible gaming measures in Colorado.
Colorado Could Influence Other States
If Gov. Polis signs the legislation into law, Colorado would establish one of the more comprehensive responsible gaming frameworks currently seen in the U.S. sports betting market.
The bill could also influence regulators in other states evaluating similar policies tied to sportsbook advertising, deposit methods, and consumer protections. As concerns surrounding problem gambling continue to grow alongside sports betting expansion, Colorado may emerge as one of the states helping shape the next phase of gaming regulation nationwide.
