SPGA, ACLU and others unite against California’s anti-DFS bill
The two entities have formed an alliance with numerous additional organisations against the new bill.
Key points:
– Seven organisations, including the SPGA and ACLU, have united against Bill AB 831
– The bill has been introduced by California’s Attorney General and seeks to outlaw both daily fantasy sports (DFS) and sweepstakes
– A Senate hearing regarding the bill is currently scheduled for later today (15 July)
The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) has joined forces with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and a number of additional groups in opposition to California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s new bill prohibiting daily fantasy sports (DFS) in the state.
In addition to the SPGA and ACLU, the American Transaction Processors Coalition, Association of National Advertisers, Californians United for a Responsible Budget, Virtual Gaming World and Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) have joined the pair in a united front against the decision.
The SPGA has announced this alliance via its website, stating that its concerns about Bonta’s bill are centred around the legislative uncertainty created by the usage of general language, particularly around the legality of sweepstakes operations. Currently, Bill AB 831 sits before the Senate – with an official legislative hearing scheduled for 15 July 2025.
Currently, sweepstakes are legal in California so long as they comply with consumer protection laws, anti-gambling laws and ensure they avoid becoming an illegal lottery. Bonta’s bill seeks to change that, with the Attorney General having been previously vocal in his opposition to sweepstakes, lawmakers in California are now seeking to ban the practice in the state outright.
Good to know: Ahead of the filing of Bill AB 831, DFS operator Underdog filed an unsuccessful intervention suit requesting an injunction and temporary restraining order against Bonta
The full statement released by an SPGA spokesperson states: “The SPGA is proud to stand alongside the ACLU, the Association of National Advertisers, and other partners in voicing concerns about AB 83.This diverse coalition, including civil liberties advocates, leading businesses and industry groups, reflects a shared belief that the bill, as written, could have unintended consequences for lawful promotional practices without offering clear consumer protections.”
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