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Bets Off Act would stop wagering on war, terrorism and government decisions

Murphy says the legislation follows recent concerns about suspicious activity on betting markets and whether administration officials may be using government information for profit.

News 12 Staff

Mar 18, 2026, 7:55 AM

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Legislation that would ban betting on government actions and national security events is being introduced, according to Sen. Chris Murphy.

The bill, called the Bets Off Act, would prohibit wagering on terrorism, war, assassinations and any event where a person knows or controls the outcome.

Murphy says the legislation follows recent concerns about suspicious activity on betting markets and whether administration officials may be using government information for profit.

Murphy said the goal is to prevent government actions from being influenced by anyone seeking financial gain. He said no circumstances should allow decisions about war or national security to be shaped by personal profit.

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