DraftKings Nears Approval for Full Sports Betting License in Massachusetts
DraftKings is on track to secure a five-year sports betting license in Massachusetts, pending a final decision by the state’s Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) in February 2025. While the commission has given an initial positive recommendation, DraftKings must meet several conditions to finalize the process.
Conditions for Approval
To obtain its full license, DraftKings is required to address a list of conditions set by the MGC, including:
- Fingerprint Updates: Submit updated fingerprints for certain qualifying employees.
- Fix Internal Controls: Resolve a “high-risk deficiency” in one of its internal controls within six months. This issue was identified during an investigation by the commission’s Investigations and Enforcement Bureau (IEB).
- Provide Annual Updates: Submit a yearly report detailing the company’s ongoing suitability, including updates on civil and disciplinary cases and a plan to reduce their occurrence.
Addressing Concerns
The MGC raised additional concerns based on findings from the IEB report. Although the specifics of these concerns have not been disclosed, the commission has engaged the audit and consulting firm RSM US to investigate further. RSM US has 60 days to present its findings, after which the parties will reconvene to continue the review process.
Despite these concerns, the IEB has publicly recommended that DraftKings be approved for the full license. The MGC also commended the company for its significant role in providing legal sports betting options in Massachusetts.
DraftKings’ ability to meet these conditions is critical as the company aims to cement its long-term presence in its home state. Massachusetts is a key market for DraftKings, and securing a five-year license would enable the company to expand its operations and further solidify its leadership in the state’s sports betting market.
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