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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2015 - 2016
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 17, 2016 10:21 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Anthony H. Williams |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Daily Fantasy Sports Betting Regulation |
| In the near future, I will be introducing legislation to permit and regulate the operation of fantasy sports games in Pennsylvania. Anyone who watched a professional football game last season is aware of the leading daily fantasy sports betting websites DraftKings and Fan Duel. These and other websites operate legally under the federal Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, due to classification as games of skill rather than games of chance. Nevertheless, many states across the country have restricted companies from operating within their jurisdictions, notably New York State late last year. Even in states where fantasy sports betting are completely legal, concerns remain over consumer protections against potentially deceptive advertising practices. While Pennsylvania does not currently restrict daily fantasy sports betting sites, there are no formal guidelines in place which would allow companies to operate legally while ensuring adequate consumer protections. My legislation would amend Title 4 (Amusements) to formally allow daily fantasy sports betting as a game of skill. Operators of websites would be required to register with the PA Gaming Control Board and to remit taxes based on gross revenues earned from play in the state. Following the lead of Virginia, this industry-supported legislation would also protect players over 18 from engaging in problem gambling, protect their personal information, and prohibit employees of fantasy gaming companies from profiting off of “insider information.” Please join me in sponsoring this legislation. Any questions or concerns may be directed to my legislative director, Kyle Miller, at 717-787-5970 or kmiller@pasenate.com. |
Introduced as SB1324