Guv Signs Massachusetts DFS Bill; Florida lawmakers get an earful over murky fantasy sports status

The future is bright for daily fantasy sports leagues in Massachusetts. In Florida, not so much.

Gov. Charlie Baker signed the $1 billion economic development into law on Wednesday, paving the way—among other things—for the legal status of daily fantasy sports in the state.

A provision in the bill specifically states that “a fantasy contest shall not be considered illegal gaming,” because it falls under skill-based games. However, real-money fantasy sports operators in the state must follow the list of consumer protections set by Attorney General Maura Healey last November.

Under the new law, fantasy sports operator can offer real-money contests legally until July 31, 2018. There are no fees or taxes associated with setting up a DFS business in Massachusetts, according to the new law or Healey’s regulations.