Sec.12-865-5. Online Gaming Operator Requirements

(a) No person shall be licensed as an online gaming operator without first entering into an agreement with a master wagering licensee to operate an electronic wagering platform for purposes of offering internet games or retail sports wagering. A master wagering licensee shall confirm, in a manner acceptable to the department, that such licensee has entered into an agreement with the online gaming operator and authorize such online gaming operator to provide gaming services on behalf of the master wagering licensee.

(b) An online gaming operator applicant shall apply on a form and in a manner prescribed by the department. The department shall permit applicants with comparable credentials in another state that has substantially similar license requirements to apply for reciprocal licensing based on the applicant’s status as a licensee in good standing in such other state. If the department issues an online gaming operator license to an applicant based on reciprocity, the applicant shall provide all information required of a non-reciprocal initial applicant no later than three months prior to the renewal date when such license expires. An online gaming operator applicant shall be required to supply in its application information sufficient to demonstrate to the department the good character, fitness, and financial stability of the applicant, which at a minimum shall include:

(1) the name of the master wagering licensee with whom the applicant has contracted;

(2) the name, and location of the applicant’s business;

(3) the applicant’s federal tax identification number, Connecticut tax registration number, and, where applicable, social security number;

(4) the nature of the applicant’s business;

(5) the names, contact information and dates of birth of owners and key employees, as required by the commissioner;

(6) a breakdown of ownership interests in the applicant;

(7) an explanation of any criminal conviction, other than minor traffic offenses, of the applicant and any of its owners, or key employees;

(8) consent to conduct a financial history and criminal background check;

(9) an explanation of any tax disputes or delinquencies involving taxes owed by the applicant;

(10) disclosure of any pending action or fine against or, suspension or revocation of any permit, license, registration or authorization issued by any state, federal or tribal authority, or authority in any other state, of the applicant and any owner or key employee of the applicant;

(11) the applicant's interest, if any, in other entities offering internet games or retail sports wagering that hold a credential in the state or another jurisdiction; and

(12) any additional information required by the department to ensure that the applicant meets licensing criteria.

(c) In determining an applicant’s qualifications for licensure as an online gaming operator, the department may consider factors that include, but are not limited to:

(1) The financial responsibility of the applicant. The department may conduct an investigation into the credit worthiness of the applicant utilizing the services of a commercial credit-reporting agency or other method approved by the commissioner;

(2) Any falsification of the information submitted with the license application or failure to disclose any fact material to the application;

(3) Records of criminal convictions;

(4) Federal and state tax compliance; and

(5) Such other information as the department may deem pertinent to the issuance of an online gaming operator license.

(d) An applicant shall not withdraw its application without the permission of the commissioner.

(Effective February 1, 2022)