Legal Fantasy Sports Gambling in Tennessee

Fantasy sports gambling in Tennessee is expected to be legalized after the bill passed the state senate. Gambling operators and their customers are happy to reach the legal field of gambling finally.

After the bill has been approved by the state senators on a 29-1 vote, fantasy sports gambling in Tennessee starts a new chapter in the state. Unlike in Illinois – where fantasy sports is considered as gambling and therefore it is banned – Tennessee seemed to be serious about legalizing DFS.

A report published on The Tennessean  justifies this statement. Back in February when Sen. Jack Johnson proposed a bill regarding the complete legalization of daily fantasy sports. As it was expected, the lawmakers accepted his proposition. Other states, like Virginia where daily fantasy sports have recently been legalized, show a good example in this question.

The long Process of Legal Fantasy Sports Gambling in Tennessee

Although the Attorney General, Herbert Slatery did not published a legal opinion on fantasy sports, one thing was still clarified. The state senate state tgat they clearly distinguished fantasy sports from lottery.

Senator Jack Johnson commented on the decision of the state senators, saying that there are still a lot of things to be cleared. As he said, he is working on some essential issues along with Herbert Slatery. The senator said that daily fantasy sports betting requires skills; therefore DFS cannot be regarded as lottery. Tennessee Constitution is against playing lottery, except for the state lottery. However, this regulation shouldn’t effect DFS.

The next step in the legalization process should be completed by the Tennessee Secretary of State‘s office. They have the responsibility for setting up guidelines regarding the registration fees and charges.

Sen. Jack Johnson expressed his support regarding the registration process and paying fees.  Moreover, operators will pay taxes which is definitely beneficial for the state. So fantasy sports gambling in Tennessee is not a fantasy any more, neither for the operators nor for the customers.