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Illinois weighs legalization of daily fantasy sports betting

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Legislation to legalize gambling on online daily fantasy sports in Illinois got initial approval in the state House amid concerns about whether it includes enough safeguards to prevent minors from participating.

The bill passed a House committee 9-4 Wednesday. It seeks to regulate how the online businesses operate. Among other things, the bill would forbid company employees and anyone under age 21 from participating.

The Illinois Gaming Board would oversee the contests and operators who violate the law would face fines. Operators also would pay licensing fees based on revenue.

Industry giants DraftKings and FanDuel have been pushing for regulation in Illinois and other states. They support the legislation and called it thoughtful.

In a December opinion, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan said the games are Illegal.

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