Substitute Senate Bill No. 1464 seeks to modernize and clarify the legal framework surrounding sports wagering and multijurisdictional internet gaming in Connecticut. The bill repeals Section 12-850 of the general statutes and introduces new definitions, including "business entity," "commissioner," "fantasy contest," and "master wagering licensee." A significant insertion is the clarified definition of "fantasy contest," emphasizing that outcomes should be primarily based on players' knowledge and skill rather than the performance of specific teams or players. The bill also introduces the term "Mashantucket Pequot memorandum of understanding," which pertains to the agreement between the state and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe. Additionally, it establishes new provisions for online gaming, including definitions for "online casino gaming" and "peer-to-peer casino game," and outlines the responsibilities of gaming operators, including the prohibition of multiple accounts and the establishment of monetary limits.
The bill mandates that the Governor can enter into agreements with other states or federally recognized tribes for multijurisdictional internet gaming, provided compliance with state and federal laws. It emphasizes responsible gambling measures, such as a self-exclusion process and a toll-free assistance line for users. Key deletions from current law include the removal of certain phrases and responsibilities that are no longer applicable, while new regulations enhance consumer protection and ensure fair practices in online gaming. The bill also requires gaming operators to provide responsible gambling information and a toll-free number for customer support, and it sets maximum wager limits for online sports wagering. The effective date for these changes is July 1, 2025, although concerns have been raised regarding potential conflicts with existing regulations and agreements related to gaming operations in Connecticut.
Statutes affected: Raised Bill: 12-850, 12-865
GL Joint Favorable: 12-850, 12-865
File No. 581: 12-850, 12-865