New Jersey Assembly Bill Would Ban Micro Betting on Sports

Michael Savio
By: Michael Savio
Sports Betting
Photo by Marion Touvel, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Photo by Marion Touvel, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Key Takeaways

  • The bill would ban micro-betting in New Jersey
  • Micro-betting allows bettors to wager on small aspects of a game
  • Three investigations into betting scandals involving micro-betting have been opened in 2025

Bettors in the Garden State may soon have fewer sports betting options.

New Jersey Assemblyman Dan Hutchinson has introduced A 5971 this week. The bill proposes to place a ban on micro-betting on sports, which has come under fire over the last few months. Supporters believe the controversial wagers are creating betting scandals and fueling problem gambling in the state.

All of the details from the bill have yet to be made public.

What is Micro Betting?

Casual sports bettors may not be familiar with the term “micro-betting.” This unique form of wagering allows people to bet money on specific outcomes or events in a game. For example, a bettor could wager on the result of a single pitch in a baseball game.

This niche form of betting has entered the national spotlight over the last few months, but not for the right reasons. Three sports betting investigations into pro athletes have been announced in 2025, with accusations centering around micro bets. While no charges have been filed, the investigation has shed light on how easily athletes can affect the outcome of these wagers.

Higher Risk of Problem Gambling

While protecting the integrity of sports is one reason to ban micro-betting, Assemblyman Hutchinson is more concerned about its ties to problem gambling. He believes this style of betting can lead players to place dozens of wagers on a single event, leading to massive losses in a short period.

“The pace of micro betting is designed to keep people gambling constantly, making one impulsive bet after another with little time to think,” Hutchison said in a press release. “This bill is a commonsense step to slow that cycle down and protect individuals from the financial and emotional harms that can come with excessive betting.”

Slowing Sports Betting Down

Hutchinson’s bill is part of a larger strategy to slow down the sports betting process. 

There is a growing belief that too many bet types are being offered by US sportsbooks. Between live betting, prop bets, and micro-betting, it is easy for people to exceed their gambling budget quickly. It also makes it easier for losing bettors to keep pushing to win their money back, which often leads to even more losses.

All eyes will be on New Jersey if A 5971 becomes law. If problem gambling numbers drop, it could lead to a nationwide movement to ban micro-betting. 

Michael is an avid sports fan and a veteran bettor from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He learned the trade from his grandfather in Las Vegas as a kid. As an adult, Michael started picking games for a small sports betting site and has built it into a career. His experience allows him to provide tips and information to help other bettors improve their game. Michael cheers for all Wisconsin pro teams, the Arizona State Sun Devils (his alma mater), and the Ottawa Senators. He specializes in baseball betting but has extensive experience in football, basketball, and hockey. When he isn’t pouring over stats, he’s spending time with his two young children or hiking and enjoying the outdoors.