By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment to a section of the sports betting bill that prohibits a credit card from being used to place bets. The amendment clarifies that any use of credit, whether the credit card itself or some other third-party, is prohibited.

Amendment supporters said that without the amendment, a consumer could link a credit card to an online payment system, such as PayPal, or use a credit card to purchase sports betting gift cards at retailers like 711, Walmart and various gas stations.

“Prohibiting credit card use, particularly for those with a gambling addiction, will prevent consumers from going into insurmountable debt,” said amendment sponsor Sen. Mark Montigny (D-New Bedford). “If the commonwealth is going to allow this form of gambling, then we have a responsibility to protect the public by ensuring all forms of credit are not allowed. We cannot leave significant consumer protections in the hands of a profit-driven industry, and this amendment ensures there are no credit loopholes for third-party payment methods like gift cards or online payment systems.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment).

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes