States may be Overstepping Boundaries by Eliminating Sweepstakes Managers
Title: The Shifting Landscape of Sweepstakes Operators: a State-by-State Breakdown
Author: Michael Savio, Date: 03/28/2025
Image: Courtesy of Japanexperterna.se, CC BY-SA 2.0
Key Insights
- Many states are tightening regulations on sweepstakes operators
- Initially seen as non-gambling activities, free-to-play platforms are now under scrutiny
- The latest frontier is Missouri, considering a proposal to ban the sector
Get a front-row seat to the US online casino scene with Michael Savio's insights and expertise. A veteran of Las Vegas' retail industry, he now brings his wisdom to the online frontier, covering everything from casino reviews to industry news. Want more? Check out Michael's latest articles at casinos.com.
All Reviews by Michael Savio[Link]
Trending News
For a comprehensive look at the latest developments, keep reading!
State of Play
The regulatory landscape for sweepstakes operators in the United States is dynamic, with states taking varying approaches. Here's a snapshot of the key trends:
- Regulatory Action
- Michigan and Washington have outright banned sweepstakes casinos, with Michigan taking a hard line against operators like Chumba Casino[1][3].
- Connecticut is backing a bill to ban sweepstakes gaming, already suspending licenses of related suppliers such as High 5 Games[3][5].
- Arizona has issued cease-and-desist orders to unlicensed operators, including those with sweepstakes games[4].
- Legislation
- New York has proposed a bill (SB5935) to ban online sweepstakes casino games, with potential penalties for violators[1].
- Maryland's proposed ban on online sweepstakes casinos did not pass during the 2025 legislative session, but regulatory agencies have issued cease-and-desist letters[2][3].
- Illinois and New Jersey are among states with ongoing legislative efforts or discussions regarding sweepstakes casinos[3].
- Exit of Platforms
- High 5 Casino has exited New York and Connecticut, while others like PlayFame, SpinBlitz, and Hello Millions have scaled back or left several states due to increased regulations[1][3].
While not every proposed ban has passed, the regulatory pressure is undeniable, and major platforms are adjusting by exiting or scaling back in various states. Stay tuned for more updates from your go-to source in the online casino industry, Michael Savio!
- Michael Savio, an expert in the online casino industry, reveals a proposal in Missouri to ban the sector, joining states like Michigan and Washington that have already imposed such bans.
- In the dynamic regulatory landscape of sweepstakes casinos in the United States, states like Connecticut are backing bills to ban the activity, suspending licenses of related suppliers such as High 5 Games.
- Online platforms like High 5 Casino are responding to the increased regulatory pressure by exiting states like New York and Connecticut, following trends set by others like PlayFame, SpinBlitz, and Hello Millions.
- Prohibiting online sports betting continues to be a concern for many states, with New York proposing a bill (SB5935) to ban online sweepstakes casino games, imposing potential penalties for violators.
- Despite some proposed bans not passing, responsible gambling advocates must remain vigilant as the landscape of casinos and gambling continues to evolve online, with Michael Savio keeping readers informed on the latest developments.
