Tennessee becomes latest state to class DFS as illegal

Tennessee Attorney General Herbert Slatery III has declared daily fantasy sports (DFS) to be illegal, increasing the number of US states to have taken such a stance to 13.

In a statement issued by Slatery’s office, the Attorney General challenged the legality of DFS competitions that give players the chance to win a share of a cash prize, which their paid entry fees help build up.

Tennessee law defines gambling as players risking anything of value for a profit whose return is contingent on chance, with the exception of certain situations.

“A person who knowingly engages in 'gambling' commits a punishable offence,” a statement from Slatery’s office said.

“Absent legislation specifically exempting fantasy sports contests from the definition of ‘gambling’, these contests constitute illegal gambling under Tennessee law.”

In response to the ruling, DFS brand DraftKings, which had been operational in Tennessee prior to the decision, said it in a statement published by the Reuters news agency that it is engaged in an “active dialogue with elected officials” in the state to discuss the future of fantasy sports.

The operator added: “We call on all of our fans and Tennessee supporters to let their voices be heard in the coming days to show support for this legislation and protect their right to play the games they love.”

Related article: Illinois delays DFS legislation, Colorado to work on new bill