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The measure
signed by McAuliffe, a Democrat, mandates that players be 18 or
older, offers players limits on how much they can bet, requires
annual audits and bars employees from competing in company
contests. It takes effect on July 1.
"This bill, which was passed by super majorities of both
chambers, will empower Virginia to regulate this emerging
industry and keep consumers safe from abuses," Brian Coy, a
McAuliffe spokesman, said in a statement. The governor signed
the bill on Monday.
The growing fantasy sports industry dominated by DraftKings and
FanDuel has drawn increased attention from state regulators over
the past year, with the attorneys general of New York, Illinois
and Nevada questioning their legality. The games are illegal in
several states.
The companies charge customers to take part in mostly single-day
games in which they draft a roster of players whose performance
on the field earns points.
In statements on a sports gaming website, spokesmen for
DraftKings and FanDuel welcomed the Virginia measure.
Texas reached a deal with FanDuel last week in which the company
will halt paid operations in the state on May 2.
(Reporting by Ian Simpson in Washington; Editing by Peter
Cooney)
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