Lawsuit could block DFS legalisation in New York

After a long legal battle, DFS operators have finally obtained permission in New York.

US.-  Lawmakers and Governor Andrew Cuomo filed a lawsuit in New York Supreme Court in Albany to block the legalisation of online daily fantasy sports contests in the State. The anti-gambling group marked the new legislation as “unconstitutional.” The law was signed by Cuomo in August.

The lawsuit, presented yesterday, also demands a ballot so New Yorkers can decide whether the state should regulate the sector. “It’s hilarious to think this isn’t gambling. It’s pretty simple. It’s a game that involves betting. You put up money, and you forfeit the money if you lose,” said Cornelius Murray, an Albany lawyer representing the four plaintiffs — Jennifer White, Katherine West, Charlotte Wellins and Anne Remington —, including two from Western New York.

In the 77-page lawsuit the group insists on banning DraftKings and FanDuel services, claiming that they have more than one million New York customers. “The plaintiffs seek to protect the public from predatory gambling consistent with the constitution,” said Neil Murray, an attorney who filed the suit. “They also intend to stop FanDuel, DraftKings and other internet gambling operators from exploiting the financially desperate and the addicted in New York.”