Here’s what’s changing with YouTube’s gambling content policy

• YouTube is updating its gambling content policies by banning unapproved gambling promotions and age-restricting certain videos, effective March 19. This move aims to limit exposure to potentially harmful content.
• On X, formerly Twitter, gambling-related ads are causing controversy with unrelated promotions and community notes prohibiting such ads.
• Connecticut and Nebraska lawmakers are debating changes to online betting laws, with proposals to limit wagers and consider legalizing online sports betting.

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YouTube is tightening its gambling content policies, restricting unapproved gambling promotions and age-restricting certain videos. The new rules take effect on March 19, potentially raising concerns among content creators and industry experts.

The platform announced it would ban links, embedded images and verbal references to gambling services that Google did not approve. While the restrictions do not apply to online sports betting or in-person gambling depictions, content that features gambling may face age restrictions. Videos with gambling-related topics could also be hidden from users who are signed out.

“YouTube wants to limit exposure to potentially harmful content,” the company stated in its policy update.

This is not YouTube’s first attempt to regulate gambling content. In 2021, the company banned certain gambling-related ads to protect younger viewers.

Gambling ads spark controversy on X

Meanwhile, gambling-related ads have flooded X, formerly Twitter. Many users report seeing random gambling promotions attached to unrelated posts. Some tweets now include community notes, reminding users that gambling advertisements are prohibited on the platform.

States push for online betting changes

As YouTube restricts gambling content, lawmakers in Connecticut and Nebraska are debating changes to online betting laws.

In Connecticut, a new bill proposes limiting the amount users can wager on online sports betting. The state is also considering joining a multi-state agreement to allow interstate online poker.

Nebraska legislators are taking a different approach. They are reviewing a constitutional amendment that would allow voters to decide whether to legalize online sports betting. Supporters argue it could generate millions in state revenue, while opponents warn of potential gambling addiction issues.