The Coalition for Fantasy Sports has backed Illinois House Bill 5648, which aims to outline a robust regulatory framework for daily fantasy sports in the state.
Sports betting has been legal in Illinois since 2019, but the new bill, called the Fantasy Sports Consumer Protection Act, would close an essential chapter in the effort to safeguard fantasy sports fans throughout the state.
The proposed legislation aims to not only protect the hundreds of thousands of fantasy sports fans across Illinois but also the integrity of the games they enjoy. The framework would ensure legal clarity, responsible play, and consumer protection while promoting innovation and removing barriers to growth that threaten the fantasy sports industry.
"With the popularity of daily fantasy sports soaring, now is the time to codify the industry's legal status into state law and ensure Illinois players are best protected," said Chief Senate Bill Sponsor Lakesia Collins.
"That is why I'm incredibly excited to take the lead on legislation that would not only allow sports fans to continue playing the daily fantasy contests they love, but do so in a way that protects their best interests, puts up guardrails to keep bad actors out of the market, and generates potentially tens of millions in new tax revenue for Illinois."
House Bill Sponsor, Representative Eva-Dina Delgado, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of regulatory clarity, “Our goal is to provide a secure environment for fantasy sports fans across the state of Illinois. This legislation is a positive step toward ensuring that fantasy sports enthusiasts can continue participating in these contests with confidence.”
