Texas DFS Bill – H.B. 393
H.B. 393 seeks to legalize fantasy sports contests by amending the Texas Penal Code’s definition of “bet” to exclude prizes or awards won in a fantasy sports contest. The language is mostly consistent carve-out language but there are two key additions which could have a material effect on contests currently being offered in the state.
Texas Sports Betting Bill – H.B. 1121
A recent bill authorized by Representative Harold Dutton of Houston on January 12, 2021 seeks to legalize sports betting in Texas. The bill aims to allow authorized permit holders to offer sports betting through their designated electronic platforms.
Texas Amendment Would Open Door For Commercial Casinos
On February 8, 2021, San Antonio Democratic Senator Roland Gutierrez filed Senate Joint Resolution 36 (SJR 36 or hereafter, the “Amendment”) in an effort to amend the Texas Constitution and thus pave the way for commercial casinos in Texas. If […]
College Athlete Advocacy Lawyers
At Vela Wood, we pride ourselves on passionately representing the interests of prospective and current college athletes nationwide.
Head Coach Monitoring: Understanding NCAA Requirements and Proactively Protecting Your Interests
While many head coaches believe their head coach monitoring responsibilities are being met, numerous infractions involving high-profile coaches indicate a disconnect between the expectations of the NCAA enforcement staff and NCAA Division I infractions hearing bodies, and current practices head coaches believe to be sufficient.
The Name, Image, and Likeness Legal and NCAA Regulatory Landscape
The purpose of this article is to summarize the name, image, and likeness legal landscape, and the rights athletes would have to commercialize their right of publicity depending on what is ultimately legislated.
NAIA Passes Name, Image, and Likeness Legislation
As college athletics awaits the NCAA’s proposed modifications to its name, image, and likeness legislation, the NAIA has become the first intercollegiate athletics governing body to pass legislation permitting athletes compensation for the use of their name, image, and likeness. […]
NCAA Compliance 101: Understanding the NCAA’s Drug-Testing Appeals Process
The NCAA’s drug-testing program is designed to promote fair and equitable competition in college athletics and to deter college athletes from using performance-enhancing drugs or other banned substances. As part of the program, the NCAA provides year-round, championships, and bowl game drug testing.
IRS States That DFS Operators Are Liable For Excise Tax
A recent IRS Internal Memorandum has ruled that DFS operators must pay federal excise taxes on entry fees, a viewpoint that, if enforced, could have widespread effects on the fantasy industry.
Maintaining Sponsorship Partnerships During COVID-19 and Beyond
Colleges and universities should make ensure they have a solid understanding of how COVID-19 may impact each sponsorship agreement and potential concerns each sponsor may have.