The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has levied fines totaling $50,000 against three casinos for violations related to in-state collegiate sports betting. Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casinos were penalized for allowing patrons to wager on sporting events involving local collegiate teams, contravening state regulations. This report delves into the details of the fines, the specific incidents that led to the penalties, and the corrective actions taken by the casinos.
Regulatory Violations and Fines
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has imposed fines on three casinos—$10,000 for Encore Boston Harbor and $20,000 each for MGM Springfield and Plainridge Park. The fines stem from illegal sports betting activities that occurred during basketball games in early February, shortly after the launch of in-person sports betting at these establishments. The penalties highlight the regulatory commitment to enforcing rules surrounding collegiate sports betting.
Incident Details and Incorrect Listings
The violations were linked to basketball games where patrons were allowed to place bets on in-state collegiate teams, a practice prohibited by state law unless the teams are part of a tournament with four or more competitors, such as March Madness. MGM Springfield and Plainridge Park allowed illegal bets due to the incorrect listing of collegiate teams as out-of-state competitors.
Harvard versus Yale Basketball Games
At MGM Springfield, the infractions occurred during a February 3 Harvard versus Yale men’s basketball game and a February 4 Harvard versus Brown men’s basketball game. The wagers, totaling over $1,200 for each event, were accepted because Harvard University was mistakenly listed as a Connecticut school. BetMGM, the sportsbook operator, promptly corrected the error upon discovery.
Merrimack College versus Long Island University Game
Plainridge Park Casino faced similar violations during a game between Merrimack College and Long Island University, where over $6,800 in illegal bets were placed. The error stemmed from Merrimack College being inaccurately listed as a Florida school instead of its actual location in North Andover. The commission imposed a $20,000 fine on Plainridge Park for these violations.
Encore Boston Harbor’s Incident
Encore Boston Harbor received a $10,000 fine related to a $70 bet placed on a February 2 Boston College versus Notre Dame women’s basketball game. The violation occurred because Boston College was listed by two names in a backend system, leading to confusion. The sportsbook operator rectified the error by updating the list of prohibited teams for wagering.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission’s imposition of fines underscores the importance of strict adherence to state regulations in the burgeoning sports betting industry. With a total of $50,000 in penalties, the commission sends a clear message about the need for accuracy in listing collegiate teams to prevent illegal wagers. As the casinos take corrective measures, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges in navigating complex regulations while ensuring a seamless and compliant sports betting experience for patrons.