Massachusetts Gaming Commission to Scrutinize Sportsbooks' AI: What's Next for DraftKings?

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-09-25

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) is taking a closer look at how licensed sports betting operators use artificial intelligence and machine learning. And they're starting with DraftKings. This review comes after concerns were raised about the operator's promotional practices. Chair Jordan Maynard announced the planned review during the Commission's September 24 public meeting, according to Sports Betting Dime. MGC Executive Director Dean Serpa and his staff will engage directly with DraftKings to examine the circumstances described in a recent New York Times investigation and gather more information about how the company uses AI. ### Why the MGC Is Stepping In The MGC's decision to review AI usage isn't just about DraftKings. It's about setting a precedent for how sportsbooks in Massachusetts can use these powerful tools. The Commission wants to ensure that operators aren't using AI to push aggressive promotions or exploit customers. "We need to understand how these algorithms work and whether they're being used responsibly," Maynard said during the meeting. "This is about protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of sports betting in our state." The New York Times investigation reportedly highlighted some of DraftKings' promotional tactics, which raised eyebrows among regulators. While the specifics haven't been made public, the MGC's move suggests they're taking these concerns seriously. ### What This Means for the Sports Betting Industry This review could have ripple effects beyond Massachusetts. Other states might follow suit, leading to a broader crackdown on how sportsbooks use AI. Here's what's at stake: - **Consumer protection:** Ensuring that AI isn't used to manipulate or mislead bettors. - **Transparency:** Requiring operators to disclose how they use AI and machine learning. - **Fairness:** Making sure that all bettors are treated equitably, regardless of their betting patterns. For DraftKings, this means they'll need to open their books—at least to the MGC—and explain exactly how their AI systems work. That could be a uncomfortable process, especially if the investigation uncovers practices that regulators deem problematic. ### The Bigger Picture AI and machine learning are becoming increasingly common in the sports betting world. They're used for everything from setting odds to personalizing promotions. But with great power comes great responsibility. Regulators are waking up to the fact that these tools can be misused, and they're starting to take action. As Maynard put it, "This is just the beginning. We're going to look at every operator in the state to make sure they're using AI in a way that's fair and transparent." That's a clear warning to the industry: if you're using AI to gain an edge, you better be prepared to explain how—and why. ### What's Next? The MGC's review of DraftKings is expected to take several weeks. Depending on what they find, the Commission could impose new rules or penalties. For now, sports betting operators in Massachusetts should be on notice: the MGC is watching, and they're not afraid to act. This story is developing, and we'll bring you updates as they come. In the meantime, if you're betting in Massachusetts, keep an eye on how your sportsbook uses AI—it might just affect your experience.