Pennsylvania moves forward to regulate DFS

Commercially based fantasy sports betting could be regulated and taxed in Pennsylvania.

US.- The House Gaming Committee unanimously passed a bill that would give the state Gaming Board oversight of fantasy sports games offered by multi-state companies such as Draft Kings and Fan Dual or allow in-state casinos to operate their own virtual sports leagues.

The bill now moves to the full House for adoption, and if approved it will make it to the Senate. In the event the legislature approves the bill and Gov. Tom Wolf signs it, the Gaming Control board would have up to 180 days to set regulations.

The bill is part of a package of legislation to expand the state’s gambling options, such as online poker and more slot machines in more places, as a way to potentially generate needed fee and tax revenue. Pennsylvania is facing a cumulative deficit of about US$1.5 billion in the 2016-17 fiscal year, which will begin on July 1.