Bill > S02617

This bill amends New York's existing law on interactive fantasy sports contests to expand and clarify the definition of such contests, including introducing a new concept of "target score" contests where participants predict whether athletes will accumulate more or less than a predetermined statistical target. The bill updates several key definitions and regulatory provisions, including changing the registration period for fantasy sports operators from three to five years, establishing an initial registration fee of five million dollars, and implementing a renewal fee of one percent of gross revenues. The legislation also provides more detailed guidelines for the New York State Gaming Commission's oversight, requiring operators to use identity and geolocation verification procedures, implement fraud prevention mechanisms, and submit annual reports. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that interactive fantasy sports contests should not be considered gambling and restricts the commission's ability to overly regulate the specific rules or design of fantasy contests. The bill aims to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework that protects participants while allowing flexibility for fantasy sports platforms to innovate, with an emphasis on ensuring contests are based on skill and statistical performance rather than chance.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2617