Bill > SB731

This bill amends the Texas Occupations Code to add a new chapter (Chapter 2053) that defines and regulates fantasy sports contests. The key provisions include: 1. Defining "fantasy sports contest" as a competition where participants assemble fictional teams of professional or amateur athletes and the outcome is based on the actual statistical performance of the selected athletes. 2. Allowing individuals to pay money or other consideration to participate in fantasy sports contests, and allowing fantasy sports operators to offer such contests in Texas. 3. Prohibiting fantasy sports operators from awarding prizes based on the performance of a single team or athlete, or on live pari-mutuel racing. 4. Requiring fantasy sports operators to implement consumer protection measures, such as preventing employees and their household members from competing in contests, restricting certain individuals (e.g., players, officials) from participating, and segregating participant funds. 5. Authorizing the Attorney General to seek injunctive relief to restrain violations of the new chapter. The bill also amends the Penal Code to provide a defense to prosecution for gambling offenses if the conduct is permitted under the new Chapter 2053 on fantasy sports contests.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB731