DraftKings States: Where Parents Should Be Careful

Betting apps like DraftKings are addictive for many users, but dozens of states sanction these platforms to operate within their respective borders.

Under so-called regulation, states allow betting platforms to advertise heavily in a market. 

The legal age to use DraftKings Sportsbook is 21 in most states, but the legal age for DraftKings’ daily fantasy sports product is just 18.

Many teens gain access to DraftKings Sportsbook through someone of legal age, similar to how some people buy alcohol for minors. It’s important to educate teens about the dangers of online sports betting.

Roughly 30-45% of online sports bettors experience problems, according to the latest sports gambling addiction statistics.

Let’s take a look at where parents should be vigilant about this particular sports betting site.

DraftKings Legal States

Since 2018, DraftKings Sportsbook has been sweeping the country. It’s now nearly impossible to watch a sports game without seeing an advertisement for DraftKings.

As of 2024, DraftKings operates an online sports betting app in the following states:

• Arizona

• Colorado

• Connecticut

• Illinois

• Indiana

• Iowa

• Kansas

• Kentucky (allows 18+ to bet online)

• Louisiana

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• Michigan

• New Hampshire

• New Jersey

• New York

• North Carolina

• Ohio

• Oregon

• Pennsylvania

• Tennessee

• Vermont

• Virginia

• West Virginia

• Wyoming (allows 18+ to bet online)

For daily fantasy sports (DFS), DraftKings is available in all states except Washington, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Hawaii and Oregon. The availability of DraftKings' online casino is more limited, with operations in Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia​.

How DraftKings ‘Promo’ Works to Lure Users

DraftKings’ sports betting promotions can be considered predatory for several reasons, primarily revolving around their marketing tactics and the fine print associated with their offers. 

Here are some key points:

1. Misleading Offers: DraftKings often advertises promotions like "Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets." While this sounds appealing, the actual terms and conditions can be restrictive. The bonus bets cannot be withdrawn and must be wagered multiple times before any winnings can be cashed out.

2. Encouragement of Riskier Behavior: By offering significant bonuses, DraftKings encourages users to place more bets than they might otherwise, potentially leading to riskier gambling behavior. This is particularly concerning for new or inexperienced bettors who may not fully understand the risks involved​.

3. Short Expiry Periods: Bonus bets often come with short expiry periods, pressuring users to place bets quickly without careful consideration, which can lead to hasty and potentially dangerous betting​.

4. Targeting Vulnerable Individuals: The aggressive marketing of these promotions can target vulnerable individuals, including those with gambling problems. The excitement of "free" money can overshadow the risks and lead to addictive gambling behavior​.

These tactics are designed to maximize user engagement and revenue for the company, often at the expense of the user's financial well-being.

It’s crucial for parents to educate their kids about how these seductive promo offers really work.

Image Marius Berthelsen / Pixabay.