Bill aims to regulate fantasy sports websites in Indiana
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Daily fantasy sports websites like “Fan Duel” or “Draft Kings” are becoming more popular every day. Now, Senate Bill 339 is aiming to put some consumer protections into place for that fan base.
Right now there is nothing regulating these daily fantasy sports websites in Indiana. Sen. Jon Ford, one of the bill’s authors, says his bill would make it illegal for anyone under 18 to play these games. It would also make it so people directly involved in professional sports, like players, coaches or referees, would not be allowed to bet on the games.
There is also a provision where college games would be excluded on these websites. Sen. Ford says these websites aren’t like playing a game at the casino, they’re skill based similar to horse racing.
“A game of skill like daily fantasy sports is based off public information statistics that are out there, so it’s really who can crunch the numbers, the best will win,” said Ford. “Where a game of chance like poker or Roulette will have a systematic chance built into the game.”
Senate Bill 339 heads to a public policy committee Wednesday afternoon.
There was a similar bill that was voted down in the House but Sen. Ford says the House is open to this new legislation.