Rhode Island's 18+ sports betting boom raises addiction concerns among young adults
Sports betting has grown rapidly in Rhode Island since its legalisation in 2019. Over 80% of wagers in the 2025 fiscal year were made online or via mobile apps. Yet concerns remain about problem gambling, particularly among young adults, as the state allows betting from age 18—unlike most U.S. states, where the minimum is 21. Rhode Island became one of the first states to legalise online sports betting in September 2019. The move opened the door for residents aged 18 and older to place bets both in person and digitally. This lower age limit contrasts with the majority of U.S. states, where the minimum betting age is set at 21.
Data from the 2025 fiscal year shows that mobile and online bets dominated the market, accounting for more than 80% of all wagers. However, financial risks for bettors are high. Records indicate that between 97% and 99% of users who placed bets over a five-year period ended up with net losses. Sportsbooks employ sophisticated tools to track user behaviour, tailoring promotions to encourage continued betting. These strategies often work in favour of the house, reinforcing concerns about addiction. Problem gambling, especially among college students, frequently goes unnoticed, earning it the label of a 'silent addiction.' The debate over age restrictions continues elsewhere. Kentucky, for example, is now considering raising its minimum betting age from 18 to 21, aligning with the standard in most other states.
Rhode Island’s approach to sports betting remains distinct, with an 18-year-old minimum age and a strong digital presence. The financial realities for bettors are stark, with nearly all users losing money over time. As other states reconsider their policies, the focus on protecting young adults from gambling-related harm is likely to grow.
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