Attorney Neil Murray Files Lawsuit Challenging New York Internet Gambling Law

A press conference was held on October 5 to announce the filing of lawsuit by Neil Murray on behalf of four New York citizens, backed by anti-gambling government reform group Stop Predatory Gambling, challenging the new internet gambling law enacted recently by the New York Legislature which includes the legalization of daily fantasy sports gambling.

The state’s constitution prohibits gambling, except those forms specifically granted exemptions, such as wagering on horse races, charitable contests, a limited number of commercial casinos and state-operated lottery. Amid a lavish lobbying campaign by internet gambling interests, the Legislature amended state law in June to declare that fantasy sports contests are “games of skill” and not illegal “games of chance.”

This action was an attempt by internet gambling supporters to evade the longer process of amending the constitution that requires passage by two successively elected legislatures in Albany followed by a statewide voter referendum.   The landmark lawsuit has received national attention including coverage on ESPN, The National Law Review and Forbes.

“The Legislature doesn’t have the power to change the constitution. Only the people do,” said Neil at the news conference held at the Legislative Office Building with Les Bernal, director of the Washington, D.C.-based Stop Predatory Gambling.