As the US gaming landscape braces for potentially transformative legal developments, PrizePicks has taken a significant step to reinforce its regulatory posture by appointing Todd Grossman as its director of gaming regulatory compliance.
The move comes at a time of heightened scrutiny and legislative activity surrounding the legal status of daily fantasy sports (DFS), particularly and most recently in California.
Grossman brings a wealth of institutional knowledge from his more than a decade of public service, most recently at the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC). There, he held the positions of general counsel and interim executive director.
In those roles, he played a foundational role in constructing the state’s comprehensive frameworks for gaming, racing and sports wagering.
His experience in licensing, regulatory oversight, and public policy is expected to bolster PrizePicks’ compliance capabilities as it scales its operations across North America.
The appointment has been viewed as a strategic decision by PrizePicks to navigate a volatile regulatory environment with greater precision and foresight.
In his new role, Grossman will spearhead the company’s compliance strategy, working to ensure PrizePicks meets evolving legal standards while supporting its long-term ambitions for licensure and market expansion.
Grossman’s legal background extends well beyond the MGC. Before joining the Commission, he held senior roles with the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety and the State Athletic Commission.
He was also previously an assistant district attorney in Middlesex County.
Grossman’s broad experience in legal governance and risk management is aligned with the increasing onus DFS operators face to maintain regulatory clarity amid national debates about the legal status of their business models.
DFS strategies face greater scrutiny
PrizePicks’ leadership shake-up coincides with significant developments in California, where Attorney General Rob Bonta has released a legal opinion potentially declaring fantasy sports unlawful.
In anticipation of the decision, PrizePicks modified its format in California, shifting to a peer-to-peer model in an apparent attempt to remain within legal bounds.
The broader industry is taking similar measures. Rival operator FanDuel recently added two veteran political strategists to its executive team, reinforcing its commitment to shaping public policy in what many believe is a watershed moment for sports gaming in the US.
The juxtaposition of legal ambiguity and aggressive market positioning has placed pressure on operators to fortify their regulatory strategies, or risk being sidelined by impending state and federal decisions.
PrizePicks’ response reflects a broader industry paradigm where compliance is no longer just a legal necessity but a strategic asset.
The company’s partnerships with prominent MLB franchises, including the Atlanta Braves, LA Dodgers, San Diego Padres and others, further signify its intent to remain a visible and influential player in the sports entertainment ecosystem.
These affiliations not only enhance PrizePicks’ brand visibility but also necessitate a higher standard of regulatory fidelity, given the reputational stakes involved.
By bringing in Grossman, PrizePicks is not just filling a compliance role; it is also actively repositioning itself within a regulatory framework that is increasingly dynamic and fraught with ambiguity.
His appointment may serve to alleviate external concerns regarding the ongoing legality and integrity of DFS operations.
