Prominent gambling companies have been actively lobbying against Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker proposal to increase the tax on legal sports betting and leaning on several questionable assertions ranging from unproven to untrue. The Campaign for Fairer Gambling (CFG) is an independent gambling reform group with deep knowledge of the gambling sector’s business practices, both in the UK and now in the US.

Closely monitoring gambling initiatives in states across the US, CFG has taken particular note of the current battle in Illinois, where Gov. Pritzker proposed a tax increase on legal sports betting from 15% to 35%. This measure is aggressively opposed by the Sports Betting Alliance (SBA), comprising Fanatics, Draft Kings, FanDuel (Flutter), and BetMGM (Entain).

SBA has lobbied against Gov. Pritzker’s proposed tax increase under the messaging banner “Why It Matters,” but has not substantiated its claims. SBA claims to have demonstrated public support for its agenda, but CFG believes signatures of support were collected under false pretenses.

“It’s no feat of strength to push a fantastical narrative, then collect signatures and proclaim a mandate. Global gambling conglomerates are expert at positioning sports betting as a foot in the door before the real floodgates inevitably open. Sports betting often serves as a gateway to slots and table games down the line, because they bring in even more revenue — not to mention harm,” said CFG founder and funder Derek Webb.

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“In Britain, there’s been a long history of gambling trade bodies making misleading representations. In fact, one group with shared ties to some SBA members is now defunct after having libeled a reform advocate. CFG is here to urge policymakers and the public to proceed with caution and not rely upon gambling companies who are globally notorious for exaggerating benefits and not owning the harm they create,” Webb added.

ODDSworks, a North American iGaming technology and content provider, announced that Kunal Mishra has been appointed as Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Operating Officer, enhancing its leadership team.

Prior to joining ODDSworks, he was Chief Operating Officer – Americas, for Bragg Gaming Group where he was instrumental in expanding the company’s day-to-day business operations throughout America.

Mr. Mishra came to Bragg via their acquisition of Spin Games LLC where he held the position of President and Chief Financial Officer. Spin Games was a pioneer in the North American iGaming space and he managed the company’s strategy, finances, and operations, along with being a partner in the company.

In his new role with ODDSworks, Mr. Mishra will be tasked with leading the Company’s growth and will be responsible for the overall strategy. He will help lead the ongoing execution of ODDSworks’ plans.

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Larry DeMar, President of ODDSworks, said: “We are incredibly fortunate to bring a generational talent like Kunal to the ODDSworks’ team. We expect great vision and leadership as we drive forward with new markets and operators.”

“Having evaluated the opportunities in the iGaming market, I am excited to take on this role to further ODDSworks evolution and momentum. As demonstrated by the Company’s progress including an expansion into new markets and focus on delivering high-performing iGaming content – ODDSworks has already established a framework to deliver consistent growth. I look forward to contributing to our long-term success,” Mr. Mishra said.