Gaming Practice
Daily Fantasy Sports
Gaming Practice
Daily Fantasy Sports
DFS has been critical for fan engagement in sports events.
In 2016, Mr. Hanley was part of the Massachusetts Attorney General’s team that drafted and implemented first-in-the-nation daily fantasy sports (“DFS”) regulations. These consumer protection regulations were models for other states.
We understand the regulations that DFS operators face and the experience to navigate them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Massachusetts regulates DFS under 940 CMR 34.00, enforced by the Attorney General’s Office.
Also, DFS operators must register with the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and pay a 15% tax on adjusted gross fantasy wagering receipts.
Players must be at least 21 years old to enter paid daily fantasy sports contests.
Operators must protect consumer funds (for example keep them in segregated accounts/trusts) and follow data security requirements.
Advertising must be fair and truthful. Misleading promotional offers are prohibited.
There are protections for problem gamblers, limits on promotions, and rules about not extending credit to players.
No. Massachusetts law prohibits DFS contests based on college, school, or amateur sporting events. Also, DFS advertisements may not target schools, colleges, students or minors.
Operators may face cease-and-desist orders, regulatory penalties, loss of registration, or enforcement actions.
Players may lose the ability to recover funds, may have contests voided, or suffer financial harm if funds or accounts are mishandled. Also violation of rules may affect claims under consumer protection laws.
