In September 2018, the U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) launched an investigation into the legality of sports wagering following a complaint filed by the California Attorney General’s Office. If the DOJ finds that any football, basketball, or baseball team’s games are fixed, it will be illegal to bet on them in California and anywhere else within the U.S.
The complaint alleged that the NFL, NBA, and NCAA fix the games to ensure a profit for the league, the team, and its affiliates. If the DOJ accepts the complaint and the evidence supporting it, all sports betting could be prohibited in the U.S.
It’s unclear what the DOJ’s next move will be after it finishes its investigation. Currently, online sportsbooks are operating as normal and are accepting bets from California residents. However, it’s also unclear whether the DOJ will issue a cease-and-desist order against all online sportsbooks or just seek a licensing agreement.
What is the purpose of the DOJ’s investigation?
The DOJ’s investigation into the legality of sports betting is focused on three things:
- determining whether the sports wagering is being done legally;
- identifying whether fraudulent activities are taking place; and
- whether third parties are benefiting from the wagering.
Since the start of the 2019–20 NBA season, there have been questions surrounding the legality of NBA betting. Commissioner Adam Silver has suggested that the NBA could follow the steps of the MLB and NFL and implement its own set of policies surrounding sports betting. The NBA is expected to soon release a set of guidelines for its players, employees, and fans concerning its views on the matter. Until then, fans are still able to place bets on games during the regular season.
Is Legal Betting on Sports a Good Thing?
Although betting on sports is illegal in most places, it’s generally considered a good thing. In England, for example, sports betting is legal but only at reputable bookmakers. If someone decides to make a wager on a sporting event in England, then they must do so from outside the country. The same goes for Germany, where football betting is legal but only at reputable bookmakers. And in New Zealand, sports betting is considered a serious offense but is still legal and can be accessed through books or online sites.
The reason for this is due to the ‘integrity of sport’. Most people believe that professional sports leagues and teams should be above board and not involve themselves in any form of corruption. There have been cases where athletes, team owners, and coaches have been implicated in sports betting scandals. If these people are found guilty of wrongdoing, then the integrity of the sport could be called into question and fans might be less inclined to show up at the games or place wagers on them. In some places, these sorts of shenanigans can even lead to the collapse of a sports franchise. It’s for these reasons that sports betting is considered illegal in most places.
Do Online Sportsbooks Have a Legal Standing To Operate?
It’s not always easy for sportsbooks to operate in countries where sports betting is illegal. That’s mainly because bookmakers in these countries don’t have a lot of trust in the sportsbooks or the site operators handling the accounts. Due to this lack of trust, bookmakers in these countries often try to avoid doing business with these entities. As a result, the sportsbooks often have to look for work-arounds to get the betting action they need.
The good news for online sportsbooks is that in many places around the world, including the U.S., Canada, and a number of European countries, sportsbooks have a legal standing to operate. This means that the DOJ’s investigation into the matter doesn’t necessarily apply to them.
What will the Impact of the DOJ Investigation Be On My Local Bookmaking Business?
If the DOJ finds that your local sportsbook is breaking any laws, then it will be up to you to prove your innocence. In many places, it’s quite difficult to fight a legal battle against the authorities, especially when you’re not confident that you’ll win the case. In the end, you could wind up with a criminal record and some serious fines.
While it’s not always the case, occasionally local bookmakers have been found guilty of facilitating or encouraging sports gambling in their area. In these situations, they have generally folded under the weight of the legal fees and fines, or closed down their operations completely. In places like the U.S., Canada, and Great Britain, where legal sports betting is established, local bookmakers have adapted to the new reality and continued to provide their services to residents.
The key to staying legal is to ensure that your bookmaking business complies with all relevant laws. In addition, you must train your staff on the proper procedures for accepting bets and dealing with customers. If you’re operating outside of the U.S., then it’s also a good idea to get in touch with the American Embassy or the U.S. Consulate in your hometown to seek advice on what steps you should be taking.
What Should I Tell My Friends And Family About My Sports Betting?
Since the start of the 2019–20 NBA season, there have been questions surrounding the legality of NBA betting. Commissioner Adam Silver has suggested that the NBA could follow the steps of the MLS and NFL and implement its own set of policies surrounding sports betting. The NBA is expected to soon release a set of guidelines for its players, employees, and fans concerning its views on the matter. Until then, fans are still able to place bets on games during the regular season.
The thing about Silver’s comments is that the NBA has a long track record of being one of the most corrupt and fraudulent sports entities. While it’s true that much of its recent success can be attributed to its superstar players, the reality is that much of its popularity can be attributed to its widespread corruption. And now, with the DOJ’s investigation into the basketball world, it looks like Silver may finally be turning over a new leaf. This is a good thing, but fans must continue to stay vigilant and keep making their voices be heard.