S.B. No. 2752 establishes a new regulatory framework for fantasy contests in Texas by adding Chapter 2053 to the Occupations Code. The bill defines key terms related to fantasy contests and clarifies that these contests do not fall under the definition of gambling in Texas. It requires operators to obtain a license from the Texas Lottery Commission, which will oversee the regulation, including the collection of fees and taxes. The bill outlines the licensing requirements, including background checks and measures to prevent fraud and ensure compliance with age restrictions and responsible gaming practices.

Additionally, the bill introduces a fee structure based on the operator's adjusted gross fantasy contest receipts, with a minimum fee of $5,000 for new operators. It sets forth provisions for participant eligibility, tax obligations, and measures to address compulsive gaming, including a self-exclusion list. The bill also amends existing laws to enhance the Texas Lottery Commission's authority to obtain criminal history information for license applicants and mandates the commission to adopt rules for implementing Chapter 2053 by February 1, 2026. Notably, fantasy contest operators will not be required to pay the associated tax until July 1, 2026, and the bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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