New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A09044

Introduced
9/5/25  
Refer
9/5/25  

Caption

Prohibits a person offering loot boxes to consumers within the state to repurchase the contents of any such loot box whether directly themselves or indirectly through a third-party provider.

Impact

If enacted, A09044 will have significant implications for video game companies and gambling establishments operating in New York. By outlawing loot boxes that can be monetized, the bill seeks to reduce the potential for exploitation of consumers, particularly minors who may engage in these activities. It also prohibits any loot box from containing money or its equivalents, which could help in preventing gambling addiction and related financial issues among younger audiences. The penalties for violations include substantial fines and the potential loss of gaming licenses, emphasizing the bill’s strict approach towards enforcement.

Summary

Bill A09044 aims to amend the racing, pari-mutuel wagering, and breeding law in New York by prohibiting the offering of loot boxes that allow for the repurchase of their contents. The bill targets both direct and indirect repurchase methods employed by individuals or businesses, including mechanisms through third-party providers. This legislation was introduced to enhance consumer protection by curbing practices that could lead to gambling-oriented risks related to randomized rewards offered within these digital or physical containers.

Contention

The proposed bill is likely to generate debate among various stakeholders, including gaming companies, consumer advocacy groups, and legislators. Proponents argue that banning loot boxes protects consumers from hidden gambling hazards. However, opponents may contend that such regulations could hinder creative freedom in the gaming industry and limit revenue options for developers. The balance between consumer protection and industry innovation will be a central theme in discussions surrounding A09044.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A08724

Prohibits mobile sports wagering operators from enabling or otherwise permitting authorized sports bettors to deposit or withdraw funds to or from their account through gift certificates, open loop gift certificates, or e-wallets.

NY A06937

Requires all withdrawal transactions made through a service provided by a mobile sports wagering licensee to be irreversible by the withdrawing consumer, the licensee or another at the consumer's request.

NY S09192

Provides that it is unlawful for any person to directly or indirectly own, operate, or control the whole or any part of a health insurance company and a health care provider; requires divestment within three years.

NY A09225

Provides that it is unlawful for any person to directly or indirectly own, operate, or control the whole or any part of a health insurance company and a health care provider; requires divestment within three years.

NY A09192

Permits a potential lottery winner who lost their ticket to claim the winning amount provided that such person shows the lottery agency documentary proof of purchase of the winning ticket within one year of the winning date.

NY S09103

Provides that gambling upon the results of any political election shall be prohibited.

NY A07338

Provides exceptions to the three-year prohibition of employment with the New York state gaming commission; excludes starters from the three-year prohibition; allows the commission to provide exceptions during the hiring process.

NY S07704

Provides exceptions to the three-year prohibition of employment with the New York state gaming commission; excludes starters from the three-year prohibition; allows the commission to provide exceptions during the hiring process.

NY A07903

Designates an individual found to have harassed or shown a harmful pattern of conduct directed at amateur or professional athletes, coaches, officials, or participants of a sports event, including but not limited to certain instances of verbal, written or electronic threats, lewd or obscene statements or images, vandalism or nonconsensual physical contact, as a prohibited sports bettor; requires the commission to notify the individual and allows for the individual to contest such designation.

NY A10515

Requires an off-track betting corporation that accepts wagers on the simulcasts of thoroughbred races from out-of-state or out-of-country to pay to its regional harness track or tracks an amount equal to three percent of handle generated from the acceptance of such wagers from out-of-state or out-of-country thoroughbred tracks after 7:30 P.M.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.