Broad legislative package prioritizes consumer protections

To install critical consumer protections in a rapidly growing industry, state Rep. Michael Webber today helped introduce a broad plan legalizing the participation of fantasy sports contests in Michigan. Webber’s legislation is part of a wide-ranging bipartisan plan updating the way gaming is conducted and regulated statewide.

Michigan law is currently silent as to whether participation in fantasy sports games is legal, and no consumer protections exist to protect people who partake in them. The plan ends the legal debate looming over the fantasy sports industry by creating the Fantasy Sports Games Consumer Protection Act.

“Millions of Michigan residents participate in fantasy leagues each year,” said Webber of Rochester Hills, who chairs the House Regulatory Reform Committee that will consider the legislation. “Fantasy sports started out as a season-long activity for family and friends and has now evolved into a massive business in need of consumer protections for players statewide. Michigan has the opportunity to ditch the sidelines and get in the game by legalizing fantasy sports contests, making it safe for customers, and allowing residents to enjoy a an emerging gaming activity year-round.”

Webber’s plan, House Bill 4309, specifically outlines sentencing guidelines for violations of the Fantasy Sports Games Consumer Protection Act.

If enacted, Michigan would join 16 other states that have already legalized and regulated the fantasy sports industry to provide in player protections.