Online gaming commission to start deliberations
Massachusetts State House
Legal and gaming experts are set to join a group of lawmakers for the first time Monday to begin a study of online gaming and fantasy sports gaming, a process that could lead to legislation next session.
The Special Commission on Online Gaming, Fantasy Sports Gaming and Daily Fantasy Sports, created in economic development legislation that Gov. Charlie Baker signed in August, will meet at 10:30 a.m. Monday in Room 222. By law, the commission must hold its first meeting by Nov. 1.
The special commission will study the regulation of online gaming, fantasy sports gaming and daily fantasy sports, including "economic development, consumer protection, taxation, legal and regulatory structures, implications for existing gaming, burdens and benefits to the commonwealth and any other factors the commission deems relevant."
It will be led by Sen. Eileen Donoghue and Rep. Joseph Wagner, the chairs of the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. Other members include Gaming Commission Chairman Steve Crosby (appointed by the Gaming Commission), Sen. Jennifer Flanagan (appointed by Senate President Stanley Rosenberg), Rep. James Kelcourse (appointed by House Minority Leader Brad Jones) and Assistant Attorney General Dan Krockmalnic (appointed by Attorney General Maura Healey), according to Donoghue's office.
The commission will also include members selected by Baker, House Speaker Robert DeLeo and Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr. Baker's office said Thursday it had "no one to announce yet," DeLeo's office did not provide the name of the speaker's appointee by press time and Tarr's office did not respond to a request from the News Service.
The commission has until July 31, 2017 to submit to lawmakers its final report and recommendations for legislation. By law, it cannot "include in its review a comprehensive review of the state lottery or its ability to provide lottery products online or over the internet."
Pointing to stagnant scratch ticket sales as more bettors wager on daily fantasy sports and other online games, Lottery officials have been seeking legislative authorization to offer their products on the internet. Efforts fell short this session, but Treasurer Deborah Goldberg plans to file and champion legislation next session to allow the Lottery to offer its products online and on smartphone apps.
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