The Nevada Gaming Commission has accepted recommendations to end the requirement for sports betting operators to obtain approval to offer betting on certain eSports events. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
Relief for operators
With interest in eSports betting constantly growing, authorities in Nevada have made it easier for sportsbooks to offer these types of markets. The Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC) approved new regulations Thursday that eliminate the requirement for operators to obtain approval before accepting bets on certain eSports events.
The eight-member Nevada Esports Technical Advisory Committee made a number of proposals last year regarding the issue, and the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) accepted most of the recommendations in January. The only clause it added was one on doping, as the regulatory body wanted drug testing to be more stringent at events.
Fears that this will impair betting handling
The NGC eventually removed that requirement during Thursday’s hearing over concerns it would impair the handling of betting as licensees would have to check that each event has a code of conduct in place containing specific anti-doping prohibitions.
Jennifer Togliatti, president of the NGC, said the anti-doping clause was a “nice idea” but would be very difficult “logistically, financially and practically”. The onus will be on specific sports betting operators to do their own due diligence when it comes to specific events.
Important change
The previous rule that required sportsbooks to obtain approval before offering markets on certain eSports events often frustrated bettors who then turned elsewhere to get in on the action. Operators also found it difficult to plan ahead and promote some high-profile events in advance. NGCB member Brittney Watkins spoke at the hearing and explained how “regulations are very important” to the industry and that they have been a long time coming.
Esports betting is legal in fewer than 18 states although more than 30 states have esports books in operation.
Operators offering betting on eSports have an obligation to monitor the safety of events just as they do with traditional sports. This means reporting any suspicious betting activity, prohibiting participants and coaches from participating in betting, as well as monitoring for any potential signs of match-fixing.
Doping in eSports
One of the main concerns in esports when it comes to doping is protecting the health and safety of participants, especially since they are young. The presence of big money in the scene has also been a motivating factor for some people to try to gain an advantage over the competition.
One of the main types of doping in the world of eSports is the use of stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin. Participants often take these medications to improve their focus over longer periods of time.
