December 31, 2022
Yesterday, the Ohio Casino Control Commission announced in a release that they intended to fine online sports betting operator, DraftKings, the amount of $350,000. DraftKings was found to have mailed approximately 2,500 advertisements directly addressed to people that were not yet of age to register as sports betting customers. Ohio regulations state clearly that operators may not target customers that are under 21 years of age.
Matthew Schuler, Executive Director of the Ohio Casino Control Commission was quoted in the release as saying:
“The Commission has been very clear about the rules and standards for sports gaming advertising with the industry, and are disappointed with the lack of compliance we have seen despite reminders. While we do not take administrative action lightly, DraftKings’ conduct in this case warrants the Commission’s intervention to ensure the integrity of sports gaming.”
DraftKings has the right to appeal the OCCC's decision. This is not the first regulatory fine that DraftKings has recieved this year. On June 30, 2022, Ontario's AGCO fined DraftKings $100,000 (CAD) for violating advertising standards with regard to marketing "inducements" (sports betting bonuses or incentives).
This is an inauspicious start for DraftKings in the Buckeye State, as the market is not yet open. Legal Ohio betting sites and online sportsbooks are scheduled to launch to the public tomorrow, on January 1, 2023.
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