Ep 567: Gambling Support on the Line with Suit That Could Silence 1-800-GAMBLER

In this episode of iGaming Daily, brought to you by Optimove, Jessica Welman and Charlie Horner, delve into the legal battle surrounding the National US Gambling Support Hotline, 1-800-GAMBLER.

At stake is the continued operation of a lifeline for countless Americans struggling with gambling addiction. Managed by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), the hotline plays a critical national role by connecting individuals to localised support. However, a contract dispute with the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ), which owns the number, has triggered a lawsuit.

NCPG argues the agreement included an auto-renewal clause, while CCGNJ appears unwilling to renew. With millions invested in promoting the hotline and its irreplaceable role in national problem gambling prevention, industry leaders are urging swift resolution.

California’s gaming landscape is also heating up, with legal friction erupting across Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS), sweepstakes, and prediction markets. A recent opinion from the California Attorney General states that most DFS formats, including peer-to-peer and house-based games, likely violate state law. This development could affect even traditional fantasy leagues and has triggered pushback from major operators. FanDuel seems inclined toward negotiation, potentially aiming to strengthen tribal partnerships, while DraftKings, PrizePicks, and Underdog are pushing back aggressively.

We also cover breaking updates on California's sweepstakes legislation and a groundbreaking federal lawsuit involving prediction markets. New amendments clarify that the sweepstakes bill targets suppliers, including affiliates, rather than end users. Meanwhile, three tribal nations have filed a federal lawsuit against Kalahi and Robinhood, arguing that prediction markets constitute Class 3 gaming under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA).

Hosts: Jessica Welman & Charlie Horner
Producer: Anaya McDonald
Editor: James Ross

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