COLUMBUS (AP) — A southwest Ohio lawmaker has proposed giving state casino regulators authority over fantasy football leagues, office March Madness pools and similar games to ensure they aren’t operated for profit.
Senator Bill Coley’s (R-Liberty Twp.) bill would put the state Casino Control Commission in charge of regulating the operators of pools and fantasy leagues, according to a report in The Blade of Toledo.
Failing to pay out every penny of the entry fees in prizes would remain a crime under the bill. For-profit pools and internet gambling are already illegal in the state.
Coley says additional oversight ensures pools and raffles continue to operate legally.
Business interests behind pools could continue to use them as promotions to draw business under the bill. They also could collect profits on advertising and sponsorships related to the games.