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Illinois AG Says Daily Fantasy Sports Betting Is Illegal

Attorney General Lisa Madigan says that daily fantasy sports betting is illegal gambling under Illinois law.

Madigan issued an opinion Wednesday declaring that the argument over whether skill is required in betting on short-term fantasy-team contests is irrelevant. She points out that illegal gambling occurs when someone ``plays a game of chance or skill for money.''  

Daily fantasy sports differ from traditional fantasy contests because they are played over short periods _ a week or even a day. Winners are decided on achievements of real players on virtual teams.  

Rep. Mike Zalewski  _ a Chicago Democrat _ introduced legislation in October to legalize the contests. He said in a statement Wednesday that the opinion gives the matter ``clarity'' as he negotiates legislation to make daily fantasy betting ``safe, fun play.''
 

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