TX
Texas Senate Bill SB731

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB731

Caption

Relating to fantasy sports contests.

Impact

The introduction of SB731 aims to provide clarity and legality to the operation of fantasy sports contests, which have become increasingly popular. By permitting the establishment of these contests under regulatory oversight, the bill could generate additional revenue for the state while ensuring that participants have some level of consumer protection. As a result, this legislation seeks to promote responsible gaming and safeguard consumers against potential fraud or mismanagement of funds by fantasy sports operators.

Summary

SB731, relating to fantasy sports contests, establishes a regulatory framework for conducting fantasy sports in Texas. The bill defines key terms such as 'fantasy sports contest' and 'fantasy sports operator,' clarifying that participation in these contests is not classified as gambling. The legislation creates a legal distinction between traditional betting and fantasy sports contests, thus allowing individuals to legally enter contests where they assemble fictional teams of athletes based on their knowledge and skills.

Contention

Despite the perceived benefits, there are points of contention surrounding SB731. Critics argue that while the bill aims to regulate fantasy sports, it still could foster irresponsible gambling behavior among individuals who may not realize the risks associated with such contests. Moreover, some members of the public express concern that the bill may not go far enough in ensuring the safety and integrity of consumer funds within these operations, suggesting a need for more stringent regulations to prevent abuse.

Section_details

The legislation mandates that fantasy sports operators must implement consumer protection measures, such as preventing employees from competing in contests and requiring segregation of players' funds from the operator's funds. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for operators to verify the age of participants and restrict individuals associated with professional sports from competing. These provisions aim to create a more secure environment for participants and maintain the integrity of the contests.

Companion Bills

TX HB1544

Same As Relating to fantasy sports contests.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1942

Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.

TX SB715

Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.

TX HB904

Relating to definitions for purposes of gambling criminal offenses.

TX HB2142

Relating to definitions for purposes of gambling criminal offenses.

TX HB2843

Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB1719

Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners; imposing fees and issuing fee permits; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB4419

Relating to the promotion of film and television production in this state, including the eligibility of film or television productions for funding under the major events reimbursement program, the creation of a film events trust fund and a film production tax rebate trust fund, the establishment of virtual film production institutes, and the designation of media production development zones.

TX SB2325

Relating to the eligibility of certain events for funding under the Major Events Reimbursement Program.

TX SB649

Relating to participation in athletic activities based on biological sex; providing a civil right to action for K-12 athletes and college athletes.

TX HB1950

Relating to the major events reimbursement program, including event funding eligibility, site selection organizations, and single event and single year classifications.

Similar Bills

IA HF189

A bill for an act relating to the eligibility of students enrolled in nonpublic schools to compete in extracurricular interscholastic athletic contests or competitions provided by public schools, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HF 1.) Effective date: 06/06/2025, 08/01/2025.

MD SB470

Fantasy Competitions - Alterations and Voluntary Exclusion Requirements

MD HB484

Fantasy Competitions - Alterations and Voluntary Exclusion Requirements

IA HF2003

A bill for an act relating to the participation in extracurricular interscholastic athletic contests and competitions by students with disabilities who are enrolled in public schools or nonpublic schools.

NV AB199

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MS HB498

"Tim Tebow Act"; establish to provide equal access for homeschoolers to participate in public school extracurricular activities.

ME LD950

An Act to Authorize Kickboxing and Muay Thai Competition Under the Combat Sports Authority of Maine

IA HF1

A bill for an act relating to the eligibility of students enrolled in nonpublic schools to compete in extracurricular interscholastic athletic contests or competitions provided by public schools, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 189.)