Louisiana House Bill HB484

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/12/18
• Report Pass: 4/11/18
• Engrossed: 4/18/18
• Refer: 4/19/18
• Report Pass: 5/1/18
• Enrolled: 5/10/18
• Chaptered: 5/15/18
• Passed: 5/15/18

Caption

Provides for a proposition election to authorize fantasy sports contests in Louisiana (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG EX See Note)

Impact

The introduction of HB 484 represents a significant alteration in state law regarding gaming and gambling definitions, as it explicitly states that participation in fantasy sports contests will not be regarded as gambling under Louisiana law, contingent on local approval. This distinction removes potential legal ambiguities for operators and participants in fantasy sports, fostering a potentially lucrative industry within the state if communities choose to endorse such activities. Furthermore, the bill encourages the establishment of regulations regarding licensing and taxation tied to fantasy sports contests, which could have considerable financial implications for state revenue.

Summary

House Bill 484 aims to regulate fantasy sports contests in Louisiana by creating the Louisiana Fantasy Sports Contests Act. This legislation defines the structure under which fantasy sports contests can operate, including the authority of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board to manage and oversee these contests. To allow such contests in any parish, the bill stipulates that a majority of local voters must approve a proposition during a statewide election, effectively granting local control over the decision to host fantasy sports contests. This legislative approach ensures that regulations align with community preferences while establishing a formal structure for oversight.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 484 appeared to be generally favorable amongst those supportive of regulating fantasy sports, as it allows for growth in this domain while ensuring regulatory oversight. Advocates argue that the bill offers a balanced approach that empowers local communities to determine their engagement with fantasy sports. However, there were concerns expressed by some lawmakers regarding the potential for local authorities to make decisions that could restrict personal freedoms, should certain parishes vote against permitting fantasy sports contests.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 484 include the reliance on local elections to determine the permissibility of fantasy sports contests. This could lead to an uneven landscape across the state, where some parishes may benefit from the economic opportunities presented by fantasy sports, while others may completely restrict them. Additionally, the discussion about what constitutes gambling and how fantasy sports fit into these definitions is a critical aspect of the bill that spurred debate among legislators, highlighting broader discussions about gaming regulations in Louisiana.