FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 3, 2025
Contact: Abby Wicker
media@thefsga.org
FSGA Statement on California AG’s DFS Opinion
Today’s opinion by California Attorney General Rob Bonta that Daily Fantasy Sports are illegal isn’t grounded in common sense and is completely out of step with opinions rendered in other jurisdictions across the U.S.
The Fantasy Sports & Gaming Association (FSGA) maintains that paid fantasy sports contests are legal games of skill under California law, and this view is supported by 26 states that have confirmed fantasy sports are legal games of skill and not gambling. In these instances – whether by legislation, AG opinions (West Virginia, Rhode Island), or state supreme court decisions (New York, Illinois) – the legality is clear.
The data shows that Californian citizens love fantasy sports with more than 6 million playing last year in some form of fantasy sports contest, and they expect their elected representatives to protect the legality of this growing industry.
In 2016, California State Assembly legislators agreed overwhelmingly that fantasy sports contests are legal by passing AB 1437. This bill not only confirmed the legality of paid fantasy sports, but it also provided consumer protection measures and passed by a vote of 68-1. Although this bill did not ultimately become law, the support for this industry in California is formidable, and the FSGA will continue to advocate for a California law that protects the interests of its member companies and ensures consumer protections for the broader fantasy sports fan base.
We ask that our member companies and millions of fantasy sports enthusiasts contact their legislators in California to let them know that their ability to play paid fantasy sports contests are now in serious jeopardy.
About FSGA
The Fantasy Sports & Gaming Association is the only national organization representing the interests of fantasy sports and gaming companies. We are the voice for over 80 million fantasy sports players in the United States and Canada as well as the companies that provide services, news, information, and competition to support these growing industries. Our members range from small startups to major media corporations, all driven by a shared passion for sports and gaming. Our mission is to empower our members with essential research, data, networking opportunities, and collective action to help them reach their full potential. For more information, visit https://thefsga.org.