Fantasy Sports Trade Association Hires First Lobbyist, Launches Political Action Committee

The Fantasy Sports Trade Association has hired Travis McCoy as its "first federal lobbyist and launched a political action committee to make campaign contributions to lawmakers," according to Fredreka Schouten of USA TODAY. McCoy is a former aide to House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) and is "treasurer of the association's newly formed PAC." The association now "wants to guard against any other changes to federal law that could hurt business and grow more active in states." McCoy said that nearly a dozen states "have laws that either ban their residents from collecting winnings from online fantasy games or raise questions about the legality of the games." McCoy indicated that the group "still is deciding which states it will target first." Schouten notes the association's federal political activity is "off to a very modest start." The association has "reported spending only $6,000 this year on federal lobbying" (USA TODAY, 10/19).

ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL: Federal election reports show Redskins Owner Dan Snyder and Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones over the summer "supported the presidential campaign of Mitt Romney, donating $2,500 apiece." Jones "made his donation before he knew" Texas Gov. Rick Perry "was throwing his hat in the presidential ring." In late September, Jones "sent a $2,500 check" to Perry. Romney's list of donors also includes Celtics President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge, figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi, and execs with the Yankees, Colts, Rays, several NHL teams and a WNBA franchise. Perry's list of donors includes execs with the Ravens and Chargers (WSJ.com, 10/18).