The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to fantasy sports and event wagering in Arizona by introducing new provisions and updating existing requirements. Specifically, it would allow individuals to offer fantasy sports contests without a license, while also clarifying that the Department of Gaming is responsible for overseeing the licensing process. The bill mandates that applicants, including key personnel and owners with significant equity interests, must submit fingerprints for state and federal criminal background checks, which the Department of Gaming will forward to the Department of Public Safety for further processing. Additionally, the bill establishes that the Department of Gaming is authorized to receive criminal records information generated from these checks.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the licensing duration and renewal process for event wagering operators, extending the validity of licenses to five years, contingent upon annual fee payments and compliance with regulations. It also emphasizes that the Department of Gaming may require employees and contractors of event wagering operators to undergo similar fingerprint checks. The bill aims to enhance regulatory oversight and ensure compliance within the fantasy sports and event wagering sectors while streamlining certain licensing processes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-1202, 5-1304, 41-1750, 92-544, 5-1203