The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has expressed dismay over DraftKings’ infringements, despite the operator’s attempts to maintain clarity, adhere to regulations and self-report its violation regarding unauthorized bets on a tennis event.
DraftKings did take the appropriate step by acknowledging its infraction, which has gone some way in preventing the MGC from imposing sanctions. Initially, the Commission’s presiding commissioners considered passing the issue onto the Investigations and Enforcement Bureau to implement penalties and undergo comprehensive investigations. However, it ultimately decided that the issue should be deliberated on an open platform to prevent other operators from committing similar infractions.
Consequently, the regulator declared that a public hearing will be organized, where the sportsbook will be compelled to account for its shortcomings.
The infringement witnessed DraftKings place bets on UTR Pro Tennis without validating its authority to carry out such wagers. Altogether, the sports betting business accepted 864 wagers amounting to a return of $7,867.
As DraftKings has explained, its infringement occurred as it carelessly duplicated a betting menu from another market without verifying the legality of all the accumulated markets within the Massachusetts jurisdiction.
Unsettled mood at the MGC
DraftKings’ transgression of local stipulations has left the Commission far from pleased. Expressions of disappointment and dissatisfaction were aired regarding the firm’s lack of caution.
Eileen O’Brien, an MGC Commissioner, relayed her irritation at the careless coping of betting menus by DraftKings without any validation against local regulations. She, however, remained somewhat undecided as to whether this negligence was innocuous or something more sinister.
The frustration was mirrored by Cathy Judd-Stein, the MGC chairperson, who posited that the regulator should be vigilant to circumvent analogous errors. She emphasized the importance of open communication to remind other companies of the necessity of abiding by the rules.
Our job is to ensure that operators understand the scope of our seriousness in this domain.
Cathy Judd-Stein, chair, MGC
Nevertheless, she did commend DraftKings for coming forward and accepting responsibility for its blunder.
Other voices within the Commission, like Jordan Maynard, are also keen to see the MGC make a definitive decision on the matter swiftly.
On a different note, the Massachusetts legislative body is also contemplating the legalization of low-stake gambling for seniors’ recreational centres. Those in favour argue that it represents a necessary form of amusement for the elderly community.
