Florida Files New Bill Restricting Bets on Predetermined Events

Florida is joining other states in revamping its gambling laws, with the Sunshine State tightening restrictions on gambling, potentially reshaping fantasy sports and sports betting. HB 189, publicly titled as ‘Gaming Machines’ and sponsored by Representative Dana Trabulsy, aims penalize betting on fixed games and strictly regulate fantasy contests. 

While the bill is generally titled ‘gaming machines’, a key section addresses betting on sports contests where outcomes are predetermined or prearranged. Trabulsy’s bill spells out the penalties for violators, qualifying the offence as a third-degree felony, with prison time and a fine. 

The House last acted on the bill last November 10th, and it was added to the Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee agenda, with an expected effectivity date on July 1st, 2026.

Key Provisions of HB 189

There are a few bills filed in the Florida legislature which aim to tighten the rules on gambling, especially where the outcome of an event has been arranged ahead of time. For example, there’s HB 953, which criminalizes knowledge of a ‘fix’ in athletic contests. A similar language appears under SB 1404, which prohibits wagering on athletic contests with knowledge that the results are predetermined.

One of the latest bills in the pipeline is HB 189, with a section which highlights betting on sports contests where results are predetermined or prearranged. Here are a few key details of the bill:

• The bill imposes criminal liability on any person who bets on an amateur or professional sporting contest or match, with knowledge that the results have been predetermined or prearranged.
• The proposed penalty is a third-degree felony. Under Florida laws, a third-degree felony carries up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000, depending on the statute.
• Trabulsy’s bill also covers fantasy sports. Fantasy contests must comply with specific parameters, like outcomes must not be based on point spreads or team scores, and make operators liable for any violations.

What’s Next for Sports Fans, Bettors, and Operators?

HB 189 will have a ripple effect on sports betting and even players of online sweepstakes casinos. For bettors, knowingly placing a wager on a contest that is fixed becomes a felony. This creates an increased legal risk for the bettor who wishes to participate in these activities. 

Under the law, operators aren’t just the ones held liable; even players who knowingly exploit the system can face charges.

For operators, they must ensure that their business models are updated and comply with existing regulations by 2026. Ultimately, some commentators suggest that the passage of this bill may have unintended consequences on other industries, including sweepstakes casinos, social sportsbooks and contests and casual fantasy leagues, unless exemptions are clearly identified.

REFERENCES:

• House Bill 189