New York is moving forward with efforts to expand its sports betting market.

A new bill, SB 2616, introduced by state senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., has passed a key committee vote, bringing the state closer to allowing season-long proposition bets and wagering on future award winners.

If approved, bettors would be able to place wagers on the Heisman Trophy winner, the NFL’s Most Valuable Player, and other season-long outcomes.

Additionally, the bill proposes adding bets on pre-game events, such as coin tosses.

Supporters argue that these changes would enhance New York’s already dominant online sports betting market, which has quickly become one of the most lucrative in the U.S.

It all paid off since legalizing digital sports betting in 2021, as the state has generated hundreds of millions in tax revenue, a portion of which funds public education.

Lawmakers believe adding proposition bets would expand the state’s offerings and provide more betting options for residents.

And not only that, while the state debates regulation many players are looking for better options through platforms that provide a wider variety of wagering choices.

For many, online instant casino platforms are a useful alternative, offering access to gambling games and sports betting markets that aren’t yet available under state law. Offshore casinos are less restricted than domestic gambling sites, which means they can provide a wider game selection.

But besides more flexibility, these platforms offer more games, bigger bonuses, and additional payment methods, attracting players looking for more betting opportunities.

All these factors have prompted many discussions over whether New York should focus on regulating its market more strictly or expanding options to remain competitive with neighboring states.

While the neighbors are making profits, the bill is still in progress, with some forms of wagering remaining highly controversial, especially proposition bets on college athletes.

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has voiced concerns that these wagers could undermine the integrity of college sports and expose student-athletes to greater scrutiny and harassment.

NCAA President Charlie Baker has pushed for a nationwide ban on player prop bets, arguing that they create unnecessary risks for young athletes and could open the door to game manipulation.

Several states have already moved to restrict proposition betting. Arizona, Colorado, Massachusetts, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Virginia all prohibit or limit player prop bets, particularly for college sports.

If passed, New York’s proposed expansion would set it apart from these states by allowing bets on individual player performances across full seasons rather than single-game wagers.

Currently, New York is one of only a few states, alongside Colorado, Massachusetts, and Virginia, that prohibit betting on sports awards.

The proposed changes would bring New York in line with other major betting markets, expanding sportsbook offerings and providing bettors with more options.

The whole hype around the bill is part of a broader push by Senator Addabbo to modernize and grow New York’s gaming industry. His advocacy for legal online sports betting has already paid off, bringing in millions in tax revenue.

But this new attempt at legislation isn’t just about sports betting–it’s also about giving players more control over their gambling experience.

One example is S2613, a newly passed bill allowing lottery winners to remain anonymous unless they choose to go public.

And that’s going to work for many supporters arguing that expanding betting options will keep New York competitive in the growing market and meet rising demand.

Opponents will warn that certain wagers, especially on individual players, could create new risks.

With the legislative session in full swing, SB 2616 still faces hurdles, but if passed, it could redefine sports betting in New York.