Ohio governor warns sports betting industry as more companies face fines

Ohio governor warns sports betting industry as more companies face fines

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TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – Legal sports betting has set off for racing in Ohio, but regulators and Gov. Mike DeWine have not welcomed the early performance of some of the industry.

The Ohio Casino Regulatory Commission has notified DraftKings that it wants to fine DraftKings $350,000 for violating sports betting advertising rules. The commission alleges that DraftKings mailed about 2,500 ads directly to people under the age of 21 in November.

Commission Executive Director Matthew Schuler said: “The Commission has been very clear to the industry about its rules and standards for sports game advertising and we are disappointed by the lack of compliance despite the reminders. “While we do not take administrative action lightly, DraftKings’ actions in this case justify the Commission’s intervention to ensure the integrity of the sports game.”

Ohio regulators have awarded Barstool Sports parent company Penn Sports Interactive a fine of $250,000 for hosting a pregame show on the University of Toledo campus before the Rockets played at Bowling Green in November. We are also considering imposing a dollar fine. The commission accuses Barstool of targeting underage bettors with sportsbook ads.

“The industry has been aware of the Commission’s rules and state laws in these areas for months, and the Commission has sent out advertising clarifications to businesses twice a week (December 23 and 30) prior to launch. The fact that we had to issue such guidance is disappointing,” said Jessica Franks, the commission’s director of communications. “While our goal is compliance, the Commission remains vigilant in monitoring sports game advertising and promotion and will not hesitate to take administrative action in the event of repeated violations.”

Both companies have the right to a hearing. Final action will be taken at a future public casino governing board meeting, Franks said.

On Tuesday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said companies had “crossed the line” with some ads.

“This is unacceptable in Ohio,” said DeWine.

The governor said he and regulators are closely monitoring “massive advertising” campaigns.

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