As the Commonwealth’s gaming commission authorizes a new requirement for sports betting provider branding to be displayed in state sporting facilities, Massachusetts takes a leading step in sports betting rules. By a 3-2 vote, the commission confirmed the new regulation, making Massachusetts the first state to put it into effect.
New Requirement for “21 and Older” Language
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has determined that any visible sports betting operator’s branding on signs or permanent structures within athletic arenas must contain the phrase “21 and older.” Even if they are not a part of particular sports betting ads, this rule will nonetheless apply to standalone logos for sports betting operators. Notably, the restriction only applies to logos used in athletic venues, guaranteeing conformity with the law for all sports facilities owned by the Commonwealth.
Mixed Reactions from Sports Franchises and Operators
The Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, and Boston Red Sox all voiced their opposition to the proposed language requirement prior to the ruling. They questioned if simply showing a logo would pique the attention of kids in sports wagering. They further emphasized how it is inconsistent to need age disclaimers next to sports betting logos but not next to logos for alcohol or automobiles, both of which have minimum legal ages.
The first branding restrictions, however, alarmed sports betting companies including Fanatics Sportsbook, DraftKings, WynnBET, and PENN Sports Interactive/Barstool. They stated that the “branding” merely consists of a sports betting operator’s logo and did not feature a clear “call-to-action” encouraging customers to place bets on sporting events. Operator logos placed in locations where they can be seen by anyone under 21 must include an age disclaimer, which might have a substantial impact on their intellectual property.
Implementation and Compliance
On Friday, June 30, the new requirement is expected to become effective. Sports venues and operators will have 90 days following introduction to verify adherence to the “21 and older” language display.
https://igaming.org/sports-news/massachusetts-gaming-commission-introduces-new-sports-betting-logo-requirement/