Paul Tonko renews push for SAFE Bet Act after FanDuel leaves VIP questions unanswered

New York congressman Paul Tonko is using FanDuel’s response to a congressional inquiry as fresh evidence that US sports betting needs tighter federal rules. For PSPs and operators in high-risk verticals, the point is straightforward: VIP programs, inducement practices and responsible gambling controls are becoming a legislative target, not just a compliance footnote.

1. Tonko, along with senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut and Valerie Foushee of North Carolina, sent FanDuel eight questions after a 2024 personalised Cameo video from Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper surfaced in connection with a high-spending VIP bettor who is now suing the company over severe gambling addiction.
2. FanDuel replied through Senior VP of Public Policy and Sustainability Cory Fox, but did not answer five of the eight questions. The unanswered points included whether VIP bettors trying to reduce their wagering had been offered incentives to keep playing, whether promotions are targeted at customers on losing streaks, and how FanDuel identifies potentially problematic behaviour.
3. The lawmakers also asked whether FanDuel would suspend or terminate its VIP programme. Tonko said the response showed a “broken” responsible gaming model and renewed his call for approval of his SAFE Bet Act.
4. The SAFE Bet Act would establish state-level regulatory oversight, restrict sports betting advertising during live broadcasts, and prohibit wagering by people under 21 and members of sports organisations. It would also add affordability measures, funding for gambling disorder treatment and education, and state and national self-exclusion options.
5. Tonko and Blumenthal reintroduced the bill in March 2025, but it has since stalled amid opposition from gambling industry lobbyists and the American Gaming Association. Harper has said that he did not know how FanDuel would use the personalised video he recorded.