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.
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.
Five Things to Consider Before Starting Your DFS Company
Have a great idea for the next big thing in fantasy sports? There are a few things you should know before diving in head-first.
Buff Your IP: Tools for Gamers to Level Up Brand Protection
Esports gamers’ talents are opening up portals to fame, and their brands are worth a lot more than they’re projecting. In this blog, we outline three overarching strategies for esports players’ to appropriately protect their brands.
The Repeal of PASPA
On Monday the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (“PASPA”), the federal ban on sports betting. In a 6-3 ruling, SCOTUS held that PASPA unconstitutionally commandeers state legislatures by dictating what they “may […]
New Jersey DFS Update
New Jersey became the 16th state to enact fantasy sports legislation when Governor Chris Christie approved bill A3532 on Thursday. The law contains standard tax and regulatory provisions. The 10.5% tax on gross revenue will generate huge profits for the […]
Maine is Latest State to Legalize Daily Fantasy Sports
Maine On August 2nd, Maine joined four other states to become the fifth this year to legalize daily fantasy sports. Fifteen states currently have DFS laws on the books that allow for legal play. Maine’s victory was narrowly won—Governor Paul […]
DFS Updates: New Hampshire and Delaware
New Hampshire With Governor Sununu’s approval of H580 on July 18th, New Hampshire became the 13th state to legalize paid fantasy sports. Lawmakers achieved this victory with little pushback, as New Hampshire officials have never issued a negative opinion about […]
DFS Summer Legislative Updates
It’s been a busy summer for state legislatures and a hopeful summer for DFS players. So far, 28 states have considered fantasy sports as part of their 2017 legislative agenda. At Vela Wood, we keep track of these developments and […]