BILL DECLARING FANTASY SPORTS AS LEGAL CLEARS HOUSE COMMITTEE

  

A Texas House panel on Tuesday approved a proposal declaring that fantasy sports are legal.

The proposal by state Rep. Richard Pena Raymond, D-Laredo would classify fantasy sports as games of skill and not chance.

House Bill 1457 came to fruition a year after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton questioned whether or not fantasy sports are legal, comparing fantasy sport sites to online gambling, which is illegal.

The bill cleared the House Committee on Licensing and Administrative Procedures on a 6-1 vote.

“[Tuesday’s] committee vote is an important step toward affirming the right of Texans to play fantasy sports,” stated Scott Dunaway, spokesperson for the Texas Fantasy Sports Alliance.

“Fantasy sports in our state are no different from other legal contests that Texans have enjoyed for decades. Technology has simply evolved the way Texans compete. We look forward to working with elected officials, stakeholders and players to ensure this important personal economic liberty is protected.”

Eight members of the Texas House have signed on to the bill as authors and co-authors. State Senator Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, filed a companion bill in the upper chamber.

"Texans love sports and their freedom, which is why I filed Senate Bill 1970, so that we can ensure fantasy sports are legal in Texas," said Senator Kolkhorst. "I am a longtime advocate for personal freedoms and limited government. We must protect our liberties and rights, and that includes our ability to play a game of skill that millions of Texans already enjoy. Fantasy sports add to the experience of watching your favorite team, and I'm excited to work with my fellow lawmakers and the sports fans all across Texas to pass this legislation."