New Jersey legislature passes daily fantasy sports measure

New Jersey’s burgeoning online gambling business could be about to receive a further boost following the news Friday that the state legislature has approved a daily fantasy sports legalisation bill and forwarded it to Gov. Chris Christie for signature.

DFS operators will be able to apply for a licence and either operate alone or in a partnership with local land casino and racetrack operators, and will pay an annual tax of 10.5 percent on winnings, with politicians estimating that the new licence category could bring in an additional $7 million to state coffers.

The bill specifically excludes the use of high school sports games and players in DFS contests.

Supporter of the bill, Sen. James Whelan emphasised that the motivation for the bill was primarily to protect those playing daily fantasy sports.

If Governor Christie signs the bill, New Jersey will join a growing list of US states that have independently legalised DFS.