June 17, 2016
"In late 2015, the Attorney General of the State of New York had some questions about the legality of certain enterprises operating in the State of New York. Basically, they were fantasy sports operations...As a result of the inquiry that the Attorney General did, we on the Racing and Wagering Committee, held a public hearing and did extensive research into the operations of fantasy sports. And we came to the determination that fantasy sports is not gambling, and does not therefore violate any sections of the New York State Constitution. We also decided that because there were entry fees involved and moneys involved, that the state should regulate these enterprises, and what this legislation does is actually provides for the registration, regulation and taxation of all online fantasy simulated sports games or contests that have an entry fee in the State of New York. The bill also establishes safeguards and minimum standards to provide players with important consumer protections," said Assemblymember Pretlow, sponsor of a bill that provides registration, regulation and taxation of interactive fantasy sports contests in New York State. A10736