Massachusetts Gaming Commission Delays DraftKings and FanDuel Decisions; WynnBET and Betr Exit Market
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission postponed deliberations on two additional violations of the state’s sports betting laws concerning DraftKings and FanDuel, opting to gather more information first. Both companies allowed prop bets on individual athletes during college football season, which is prohibited in the state. DraftKings permitted single-player prop bets during the National College Football championship game, while FanDuel accepted bets on a September 9, 2023 NCAA football game, without disclosing specific game details. These violations add to a series of challenges operators in Massachusetts face in adhering to regulations, including restrictions on betting on local college teams and prohibiting prop bets on individual athletes. The commission seeks further details on the incidents, including whether operators conducted audits and how they plan to prevent future violations. Meanwhile, the commission awaits the outcome of a similar BetMGM violation hearing to potentially guide its decisions on DraftKings and FanDuel. Additionally, the commission approved updated house rules for Caesars Sportsbook and renewed licenses for several sports betting platforms. WynnBET’s exit from Massachusetts, along with Betr, occurred in February, leaving six online sports betting platforms available in the state.
Apple and DraftKing’s Potential Game-Changing Partnership
The announcement of Apple launching a sports app garnered mixed reactions from the sportsbook industry. While the inclusion of odds from DraftKings within the app was noted, there’s minimal integration beyond that. However, comments from Apple’s senior vice president of services, Eddy Cue, hinted at potential future collaborations with sports betting platforms. This partnership between Apple and DraftKings could have significant implications, potentially expanding DraftKings’ reach and further inserting in the streaming/live rights conversation. While the specifics remain uncertain, industry analysts foresee a promising opportunity for DraftKings to capitalize on this potential collaboration, leveraging Apple’s extensive user base and brand recognition. As Apple Sports gains traction, the prospect of seamless integration with DraftKings presents an intriguing possibility for both entities, potentially reshaping the landscape of sports betting.
Sporttrade and Birches Health Collaborate to Promote Responsible Gambling
Sporttrade, a sports betting operator, has announced a responsible gambling partnership with Birches Health, a New York-based behavioral health services provider. The collaboration aims to prominently feature Birches Health’s resources and information on Sporttrade’s betting app, particularly during Problem Gambling Awareness Month. Sporttrade’s CEO, Alex Kane, expressed the company’s commitment to promoting responsible gambling practices, with Birches Health’s services readily accessible within the app interface. Through this partnership, Birches plans to offer new resources, including education modules and content, to encourage healthy betting behaviors. While Birches remains open to future collaborations with established problem gambling organizations, its immediate focus lies in providing support to individuals with gambling issues through initiatives like offering 10 tips for responsible betting.
Maryland Prohibits Wagers on College Athletes to Safeguard Student-Athlete Welfare
Maryland has joined the majority of states by prohibiting bets on individual college athlete performances, aligning its regulations with other states that aim to protect student-athletes from potential harassment. The decision, effective March 1, comes amidst a growing trend of states disallowing such wagers, including Ohio, where rules were recently amended. Despite this change, Maryland sportsbooks can still offer college team-related props and season-long awards bets like the Heisman Trophy. Meanwhile, NCAA President Charlie Baker continues to advocate for stronger sports betting laws to safeguard student-athlete welfare, supported by initiatives like the Signify Group’s Threat Matrix software, which monitors social media for potential threats and abuse related to sports betting.
Connecticut Study Reveals Disproportionate Contribution to Gambling Revenue
Connecticut’s Department of Mental Health and Addictions Services (DMHAS) revealed concerning findings that a small segment, less than 7%, of the state’s population accounts for over 70% of its gambling revenue, predominantly composed of those at risk of or suffering from gambling addiction. This data, presented in the 205-page study “Impacts of Legalized Gambling in Connecticut,” led by Gemini Research, indicates a significant dependency on high-risk gamblers for revenue. The report also outlines recommendations for enhanced outreach, treatment accessibility, and strategies to mitigate reliance on at-risk gambling populations to ensure a safer and more sustainable gambling environment.
David Rebuck Steps Down
David Rebuck, the longest-serving director in the history of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE), retires after 13 years of leadership, leaving Deputy Director Mary Jo Flaherty to take over as interim director. Rebuck’s tenure oversaw significant transformations in the state’s gambling landscape, including the legalization of online gambling and sports betting, propelling New Jersey to financial milestones. Largely known as one of the key faciliators of all things gaming and gaming compliance in North America and beyond, filling his chair will be an undertaking. New Jersey is viewed as a leader in gaming and compliance – Director Rebuck was a massive reason why.
Bally’s Launches Online Casino in Rhode Island
Rhode Island has launched its online casino gaming platform in partnership with Bally’s, making it the seventh state in the US to offer such services. This move follows a four-day technical trial period and collaboration between the state, regulators, and Bally’s leadership, including President Craig Eaton. The platform, known as iGaming, allows residents aged 21 and over within Rhode Island to access slots and table games online, contributing to the state’s revenue stream and positioning its casinos competitively in the New England gaming market. Bally’s expects the launch to create between 50 to 75 new jobs, with full and part-time positions available. Additionally, the initiative includes a commitment to responsible gaming efforts, with Bally’s providing funding for problem gambling prevention and treatment programs as part of the American Gaming Association’s “Code of Conduct” rollout. The platform offers various Responsible Gaming tools, such as deposit limits, session limits, spend/wager limits, cool-off periods, and self-exclusion options. Rhode Island joins other states like New Jersey, West Virginia, Michigan, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania in offering iGaming, aiming to provide entertainment alternatives while ensuring responsible gambling practices.
