Calling the state’s position against fantasy sports “almost embarrassing,” Arizona State Senate Majority Whip Adam Driggs recently sponsored Senate Bill 1468 to make fantasy sports competitions legal. As the law stands, Arizona is one of the few states where fantasy sports are illegal, potentially making players open to prosecution and denying them prize winnings. However, the Arizona Indian Gaming Association ruined the bill due to its unknown potential impact on tribal gaming compacts. The measure is unlikely to be brought up again during the current session.
Driggs said his bill meant to distinguish fantasy sports from gambling and define a fantasy sport under state law. Arizona law enforcement officers have not arrested any fantasy sports players, and that is unlikely to change despite the failure of Driggs’ bill. But small-business owners and fans who want fantasy sports to grow want the law to be specific.
Speaking to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Energy and Military, Matt Morales of the Fantasy Sports Trade Association said currently if a winner shows an Arizona ZIP code, he or she is automatically barred from collecting money, T-shirts, posters or any other prizes, even if the individual joined the league without an entry fee.
Fantasy sports are exempted under the federal Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, but the industry is regulated at the state level.
