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Are those NCAA brackets legal?
Posted: 03.14.2011 at 3:37 PM
Updated: 03.15.2011 at 6:30 AM
Steve Myers

Steve Myers is a news anchor with Pronews 7.

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AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Monday was the unofficial day to get those NCAA brackets filled out and if you're part of an office tournament... you may be wondering if it's all legal?

If you're just playing at work or with friends, don't worry, you're not going to be arrested for gambling.

As long as it's done in a private manner, the organizer or house doesn't get any extra financial gain, and everyone's odds are the same... you're okay.. it's not considered illegal, according to Randall County District Attorney, James Farren.

"The State is not that interested in your private football or basketball pool. The gambling statutes in the state of Texas primarily are trying to keep bookies, and gambling halls and 8-liner joints out of business."

It's estimated that more than $4 billion is bet on the 64 team tourney... more than what's bet on the NFL during its regular season.

What about you?
Do you plan to make bets with friends on your bracket?

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