DraftKings slapped with Iowa penalty for self-exclusion failings
Operator failed to download exclusion register within seven-day period in contravention of state law
DraftKings has been slapped with a $5,000 fine by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) for failing to comply with the state’s self-exclusion register. Under Iowa law, licensed operators are required to download information every seven days from Iowa’s state-wide self-exclusion database to their own systems. The regulation ensures that self-excluded individuals are unable to establish accounts with operators in the Hawkeye State. DraftKings failed to adhere to the appropriate timeframe and as a result, were handed a $5,000 penalty. Under IRGC regulations, DraftKings could be hit with a further $10,000 fine should it fail to comply with the self-exclusion download timeframe for a second time within the next year. However, EGR understands no company has been responsible for two failings within a 365-day period since the process was established five years ago. Speaking to EGR, IRGC director Brian Ohorilko said he was pleased with the way the operator had rectified its error. He said: “The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission appreciates DraftKings cooperation in the matter and understanding of Iowa laws and regulations. “The commission is pleased with the corrective actions taken by DraftKings of creating redundant procedures to reduce the likelihood of this occurring in the future,” he added.