(a) No online gaming operator shall provide services to a master wagering licensee or a licensed sports wagering retailer in the state without a license from the department. An online gaming operator shall apply for a license on a form and in a manner prescribed by the commissioner. Such license shall be renewed annually. The initial license application fee shall be two hundred fifty thousand dollars and the annual renewal fee shall be one hundred thousand dollars.

(b) The department shall transfer any licensing fee collected pursuant to subsection (a) of this section for an online gaming operator that is affiliated with the holder of a master wagering license issued under § 12-852 to the State Sports Wagering and Online Gaming Regulatory Fund established under § 12-869.