Unlawful Acts Unveiled: Exposé of Recent Judicial Proceedings
In a significant move for the gambling industry, three major sweepstakes casinos - Club Casino, Clubs Poker, and LuckySlots.us - have announced their exit from New Jersey, following the passage of Assembly Bill A5447. The bill, which bans online sweepstakes casinos and outlaws the "sweepstakes model of wagering" in the state, awaits Governor Phil Murphy's signature.
The bill, which passed both the New Jersey Assembly and Senate on June 30, 2025, marks New Jersey as the sixth state to prohibit sweepstakes casino operators. If Governor Murphy signs the bill, New Jersey will join other states such as Washington, Tennessee, Illinois, and Louisiana, in banning these types of casinos.
The operators have notified players that accounts will be closed and balances must be redeemed soon, with geo-blocking for New Jersey residents starting shortly after July 6, 2025.
The bill not only bans sweepstakes casinos but also establishes penalties enforced by the Division of Consumer Affairs and Enforcement. Governor Murphy has 45 days from the passage to sign or veto the bill. If he takes no action by that deadline, the bill will become law via "pocket approval."
Industry groups like the Social and Promotional Games Association have criticized the legislation, saying it mischaracterizes the industry and could negatively impact innovation and New Jersey's reputation in tech and entertainment.
Meanwhile, New Jersey is also set to raise sports betting taxes to 19.75%, not the 25% requested by Governor Phil Murphy. The change is expected to take effect soon.
Elsewhere, in Louisiana, Chanced sweepstakes casino has closed, and WOW Vegas is leaving the state, setting a July 11 deadline on its players using sweepstakes coins. These developments come as the Public Health Advocacy Institute is suing Caesars over a deceptive $2,500 casino promotion.
In a separate incident, a jury will hear gambling evidence in the felony trial of Dee Ann Schippert, accused of stealing over $100,000 from a health department.
In the world of online gaming, High 5 Casino has added Arizona to its exclusionary list, and WSOP is reviewing the Millionaire Maker final over possible collusion between Jesse Yaginuma and James Carroll.
These developments highlight the ongoing regulatory changes and challenges facing the gambling industry across the United States. As states continue to reconsider their gambling laws, operators will need to adapt to the changing landscape to remain competitive.
With the signing of Assembly Bill A5447 by Governor Phil Murphy, sports betting enthusiasts in New Jersey will no longer be able to enjoy the welcome bonus offerings at sweepstakes casinos like Club Casino, Clubs Poker, and LuckySlots.us, as these casinos have announced their exit from the state. Meanwhile, in a move that might impact the online gaming industry, New Jersey is increasing sports betting taxes to 19.75%.
