Legalised fantasy sports launch in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has launched a regulated daily fantasy sports (DFS) market in the US state, with operators facing a 15% tax on adjusted revenue.

The new laws officially came into effect on April 28 and will require companies that offer DFS services to pay taxes to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for use in the General Fund.

Consumers aged 18 or over can now legally participate in DFS competitions with operators that have secured approval in the state.

Kevin O’Toole, executive director of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, said the regulatory body has received fantasy sports operator applications from a number of companies.

DraftKings, through its Crown PA brand, and FanDuel are among those to have secured approval.

Fastpick, StarStreet (DRAFT), JDAD (Fantasy Football Players Championship) and Boom Shakalaka (Boom Fantasy) have also been granted approval by the state’s regulator.

“This roll-out also marks the beginning for Pennsylvania to create new revenue through the taxation of entry fees from players registered in Pennsylvania to participate in fantasy sports contests,” O’Toole said.

“Pennsylvania residents that enter fantasy sports contests can know that they are participating in a fair playing environment and assured that each licensed operator meets standards set out in the law and regulated by the Gaming Control Board.

“Pennsylvanians who already participate in fantasy sports contests with any of these firms will see no difference in game play nor need to re-register.

“The Gaming Control Board urges, however, that players review the eligibility guidelines on the web sites of these fantasy sports contest operators prior to attempting to participate in play.”

Pennsylvania is also set to introduce regulated online gaming after Governor Tom Wolf in October signed an expansive gambling package into law.

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