Michigan moves on DFS regulation

The Michigan State Legislature has reportedly approved the legalisation of fantasy sports and the creation of a statutory framework.

Critics, however, believe a US$50,000 registration fee and annual renewal of $20,000 is out of reach for small operators leaving the market open to giants DraftKings and FanDuel.

Bill sponsor Republican Representative Brandt Iden, said in response:

“I don’t believe that excludes anybody from the marketplace. We want serious actors who can come in and operate these games and make sure they are benefitting players in the state of Michigan. These fees are consistent with other states and I’m happy with where we’re at.

“We know companies like FanDuel and DraftKings currently operate in this space, and these companies have come to us and said, like other states, Michigan should be regulated.

“This is not sports betting. This is not gambling. It’s a very important the distinction here. This is a game of skill, not a game of chance, and that’s why we’ve set it up differently.”

Iden is reportedly compiling a “comprehensive sports betting bill” for submission in 2019.