IL HB6586

Adds new offense to gambling law prohibiting establishment, maintenance, operation, or offering of internet sites, smartphone applications, or similar digital media that permit playing games of chance or skill for money or making wagers on games, contests, political nominations, appointments, or elections.

Extends prohibition to knowingly establishing, maintaining, or operating fantasy sports contests that permit participation for money or other thing of value, with exception for season-long fantasy sports contests.

Defines key terms including "fantasy sports contest" (game of chance or skill determined by accumulated statistical performance of individual athletes in real-world competitions), "season-long fantasy sports contest" (conducted over entire sports season with entry fee paid before start and payouts after conclusion), and "smartphone."

Establishes penalties of Class A misdemeanor for first offense and Class 4 felony for second or subsequent offense under the new digital gambling provisions.

Clarifies that "bona fide contest" exemption does not include fantasy sports contests for purposes of the prize and award exception to gambling prohibitions.