Stay up to date with the Sports Betting Industry with The SCALER Weekly:
SharpRank’s weekly updates on Compliance, Audit, Legislation, Ethics, & Regulation within the Sports Betting Industry.
North Carolina State Lottery: New Rules on Gambling Advertising
The North Carolina State Lottery Commission has proposed new rules regarding marketing and advertising in the gambling industry. Notably, there are no specific licensing requirements mentioned for affiliate marketers. The rules emphasize that operators are responsible for all advertising materials and must disclose their identity, while also prohibiting targeting vulnerable individuals and underage gambling. It’s mandated that advertisements include the North Carolina Problem Gambling Helpline and ensure clear and visible responsible gaming messaging. Operators must refrain from deceptive advertising, provide opt-out options for recipients, and retain advertising materials for two years, including those used by affiliate marketers.
PrizePicks Scores Big with Partnership Deal with NHL’s Dallas Stars
PrizePicks, a major daily fantasy sports operator based in Atlanta, recently struck a significant partnership deal with the NHL’s Dallas Stars, marking its first collaboration with an NHL team. This move further solidifies PrizePicks’ presence in the Texas sports betting market, aligning with the Stars to enhance both brands and enrich the gameday experience for fans. As part of the deal, PrizePicks gains exposure through commercials during Stars’ games and special VIP experiences for fans. Additionally, PrizePicks secures the rights to use Dallas Stars marks and logos, expanding its visibility and association with a top NHL franchise. For the Stars, the partnership offers opportunities for fan engagement and promotions, reinforcing their commitment to enhancing the game day experience. This collaboration not only elevates PrizePicks’ brand recognition but also strengthens its position in the highly competitive DFS market, particularly following recent setbacks in New York and Florida. The partnership signifies PrizePicks’ strategic efforts to expand its reach and solidify its standing as a leading DFS destination in North America, potentially paving the way for similar partnerships in the future.
Circa Sports Teams Up with Marquee Network
Circa Sports recently announced a multi-year partnership with Marquee Sports Network, the TV rights holder for the Chicago Cubs, as it aims to establish a foothold in Illinois. Under the agreement, Circa Sports will receive branding opportunities, including sponsorship of Marquee’s studio and spring training games, along with live in-game betting odds during the regular season. Additionally, Circa Sports plans to host watch parties across Chicagoland for away games and will run a “Take Me to Vegas Giveaway,” offering two viewers a trip to Circa’s Las Vegas flagship casino and sportsbook for MLB’s Opening Day. Despite the Cubs’ existing partnership with DraftKings, Circa Sports’ collaboration with Marquee Sports Network marks an independent endeavor to engage Chicago sports fans and expand its presence in the Illinois sports betting market.
Georgia Considers Legalizing Sports Betting and Casinos
The Georgia Senate Economic Development and Tourism Committee recently approved a proposed constitutional amendment, Senate Resolution 538, aiming to legalize sports betting and brick-and-mortar casino gambling in the state, pending approval from the General Assembly, the Governor, and Georgia voters. This initiative contrasts with Senate Bill 386, solely focused on legalizing sports betting, which has already passed the Senate but remains stagnant in the House. SR 538 envisions widespread gambling expansion, proposing the issuance of five casino licenses taxed at 13% of adjusted gross revenue, with revenue distribution allocated to various sectors including transportation improvement, mental health initiatives, childcare, and historically Black colleges and universities. However, with differing opinions among legislators regarding the inclusion of casino gambling and the allocation of tax revenue, reaching a consensus before the legislative session’s end on March 28 remains uncertain.
Maryland and Ohio Address College Gambling
Maryland lawmakers have introduced House Bill 1087 to prohibit online gambling on college campuses statewide, aiming to establish virtual perimeters or “geofences” blocking cell phone access to online sportsbooks. The bill, which requires contracts with geolocation service companies by higher education institutions, targets four-year public schools and community colleges, foreseeing expenses but no revenue impact. Despite existing blocks on campus networks by some institutions, concerns have arisen regarding the feasibility of enforcing geofences. Meanwhile, in Ohio, recent legislation also addresses college gambling, with the state prohibiting wagering on individual college player props, reflecting a broader national trend in restricting such bets across multiple jurisdictions.
Minnesota Sports Betting Bills: State Tribes and Racetracks Clash Over Control
Two bills in Minnesota are gaining momentum to legalize both in-person and online sports betting in the state, but the biggest hurdle remains unresolved: the disagreement between state tribes and racetracks over who should control sports betting. SF 3803 and HF 2000 aim to legalize sports betting, with HF 2000 giving exclusive control to Minnesota tribes, while SF 3803 proposes licensing opportunities for tribes, racetracks, and professional sports stadiums. Despite differing approaches, both bills face challenges in finding a compromise between the tribes and racetracks, with the outcome uncertain as they progress through committees.
Former National Indian Gaming Commission Chairman Simermeyer Joins FanDuel as VP for Strategic Partnerships
FanDuel has made significant moves to enhance its collaboration with tribal gaming entities, as evident from its recent hiring of Frank Sizemore, former VP of operations for San Manuel, and the appointment of Rikki Tanenbaum, the former chief operations officer for the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. The company’s intention to strengthen ties with Indian Country was further emphasized by the recruitment of E. Sequoyah Simermeyer, the former chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), as VP for strategic partnerships. Simermeyer’s extensive experience in tribal gaming is expected to bolster FanDuel’s efforts to establish sustainable relationships across the United States. In his statement, Simermeyer expressed excitement about joining FanDuel and contributing to its leadership position in the gambling sector, particularly in fostering long-term partnerships with Indian Country. This move comes in conjunction with FanDuel’s recent acquisition of BeyondPlay, underscoring its commitment to expanding its offerings in the gaming market.
PGA TOUR Joins Responsible Sports Betting Coalition
The PGA TOUR announced its commitment to responsible sports betting advertising by joining the Coalition for Responsible Sports Betting Advertising and renewing its role in the Leadership Circle of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). Alongside other major sports organizations, the coalition has established guardrails to ensure sports betting advertising targets legal age adults, avoids promoting excessive gambling, and maintains accuracy and tastefulness. Additionally, the TOUR will support the NCPG’s Problem Gambling Awareness Month with a cross-platform marketing campaign, demonstrating its dedication to promoting responsible gambling practices amidst the expanding landscape of legalized sports betting.
