August 7, 2025
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced his office will begin enforcement actions against fantasy sports operators following a legal opinion declaring daily fantasy sports contests illegal under state law. The opinion, issued July 3, found that paid-entry DFS contests, including pick’em and draft-style formats, qualify as sports betting under California law. As sports wagering remains illegal in the state, the contests are considered unlawful.
Bonta said his office has a duty to act. “The law is the law,” he stated, adding that the legal opinion provides a clear basis for enforcement. While the opinion itself does not carry the force of law, it offers guidance to local prosecutors and regulatory agencies across the state. The announcement marks a major development in California’s long-standing debate over the legality of fantasy sports. Previous administrations had not taken formal steps despite calls from lawmakers and tribal gaming interests to address what they described as illegal operations.
Tribal gaming groups, including the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, welcomed the decision. They argue that DFS operators have been offering games that amount to unlicensed gambling. Major fantasy sports platforms such as FanDuel and DraftKings continue to operate in the state. FanDuel said it is reviewing the legal opinion but has made no immediate changes to its contests in California.
As one of the largest markets for fantasy sports in the country, California’s enforcement stance could have a ripple effect nationwide. The next steps will depend on how local and state authorities proceed with potential investigations or legal action. This is the latest in several stories we covered on this topic, including their declaration that DFS are illegal, and that a ban was coming.
