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Can I offer contests that involve skill-based games in Massachusetts? What are the requirements?

Requirements for Offering Skill-based Contests in Massachusetts

Yes, you can offer contests that involve skill-based games in Massachusetts. However, there are certain requirements that must be met.

  1. DFSOs must comply with 940 CMR 34.13, which requires that DFS contests be segregated from non-DFS contests and exempt contests, and that personal and financial information for DFS contests be separate from other contests. Additionally, DFSOs must not target minors for promotional activities or advertising for DFS contests. [1.2][1.4]
  2. DFSOs must comply with 940 CMR 34.12, which requires that DFSO employees and affiliates not play on DFS contest platforms, except in private contests where their affiliation is fully disclosed. DFSOs must also disclose if a promoter is also a DFS player, and that their recommendations do not necessarily reflect the view of the DFSO. DFSOs must also restrict the sharing of non-public information that may affect DFS gameplay, and must develop games that are limited to beginners and exclude highly-experienced players. [1.2]
  3. DFSOs must comply with 940 CMR 34.12(9), which prohibits the use of unauthorized scripts on DFS contest platforms, and requires that authorized scripts be incorporated as a game feature or prominently published and made available to all DFS players. [1.2]
  4. Licensed organizations offering skill-based games must comply with 961 CMR 4.04, which requires that a member-in-charge be designated to supervise all activities and be responsible for the conduct of all games of chance during the function. Only bona fide members of the licensed organization may assist in the conduct of the function, and they must have held full and regular membership status for at least three consecutive months prior to the function. [1.2]

Conclusion

In summary, it is possible to offer skill-based contests in Massachusetts, but there are several requirements that must be met. DFSOs must comply with 940 CMR 34.13 and 940 CMR 34.12, and licensed organizations must comply with 961 CMR 4.04. [1.2][1.4]

Source(s):
Jurisdiction

Massachusetts