Colorado Proposes Sweeping Ban on Sports Prop Bets

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Proposition Bets Facing Potential Ban in Colorado

Colorado is considering legislation that could significantly impact the sports betting landscape by potentially banning all types of proposition bets. Proposition bets, or "props," include wagers on various aspects of an athlete's performance during an event, rather than just the final score. This proposed bill has broader implications as it seeks to outlaw any bet related to individual achievements, specific plays, or other event-related outcomes.

The language of the bill defines a proposition bet as one concerning the performance of an individual athlete participating in an event or a combination of events. The outcome of these bets would depend on specific acts, statistics, performances, events, or circumstances, excluding the final result or score of an athletic event. This definition would preclude bets on scenarios like the first team to score or the first basket of the game.

The sports betting industry is expected to oppose this bill vigorously. There is likely to be significant pushback from sports betting operators, especially given the broad scope of the proposed ban. Discussions could lead to amendments that might narrow the ban to only player-related proposition bets, rather than a complete ban on all props. As the bill progresses, it will be interesting to see how the sports betting industry responds and what changes might be made to address their concerns.

The potential ban in Colorado is part of a larger trend where states are increasingly scrutinizing the types and methods of betting allowed, reflecting ongoing debates about the expansion and regulation of sports betting across the United States.