Scudamore said: "If a club go into administration and can relieve themselves of debt it gives an unfair advantage in terms of league position. The view of the clubs is that there should be a big disincentive for clubs to overspend and overstretch themselves, that's why there will be a nine-point sanction."
The Premiership already has the power to suspend or deduct points from clubs who enter administration. But discussions in London decided a mandatory penalty should be introduced to send out a warning to clubs who are in financial difficulties.
Administration is seen as an easier option for clubs than dealing with cash-flow problems. Leicester City were heavily criticised when they entered administration in October 2002 but still managed to win promotion to the top-flight at the end of that season.
Top-flight chiefs have followed the example of the Football League, whose new rule will deduct 10 points from the end of the season.
Scudamore explained why the Premier League had settled on a nine-point penalty, while the Football League opted for a 10-point deduction. He continued: "Football League teams play more games a season, 46 compared to our 38, so 10 points in their league has a different value. Nine points is our equivalent.
"It was a split decision but it's official now in the Premier League rule book, as of today, although it won't apply until 3 June."
Scudamore said Leeds' current situation played no part in the voting. "It was stressed by the board this was a decision to be take absent of Leeds United. It is topical, but it had no bearing on the voting."