Daily fantasy sports bill hurdles Illinois Senate Committee

A bill that would allow residents of Illinois to participate in regulated fantasy sports betting has moved forward in Illinois.

The State Journal-Register reported that the Illinois Senate Gaming Committee has advanced Senate Bill 208, which aims to supersede a 2015 advisory opinion by Attorney General Lisa Madigan that daily fantasy sports betting is illegal under state gambling law.

Under Senate Bill 208, players under 21 will not be allowed to participate in fantasy sports. It also bars employees of the fantasy contest providers from playing.

The bill, which was sponsored by Sen. Kwame Raoul, will also require an annual independent audit to ensure providers are complying with the requirements.