MGC chairman Steve Crosby releases a statement regarding online fantasy sports

“In response to multiple indications of interest from senior public-policy makers seeking the Commission’s assessment of the complex issues associated with fantasy sports, I have directed MGC staff to prepare for the Commission’s first conversation on this topic at our next public meeting on Thursday, October 29.

At that time, the Commission will begin to determine its views on the broad-based public policy questions that out policy makers will need to address: First, are fantasy sports legal? The Attorney General and others have already spoken to this issue. Second, if it is legal, should it be regulated? Third, if it should be regulated, who should be the regulator? And finally, if it is regulated, what are the critical variables that should be addressed by regulation?

In no case will our opinions be dispositive. The final decisions rest with the Legislature, the Governor, and perhaps the courts. But given the make-up of our Commission and staff, and the extraordinary public policy-making process of our past three and a half years, I believe the Commission will be able to provide constructive advice on the complex issues raised by the meteoric emergence of online fantasy sports,” he said.