SPGA expresses disappointment over New York AG’s sweepstakes platform statements

Key Points
- New York Attorney General Letitia James discussed sweepstakes platforms, saying they were illegal and dangerous
- The SPGA said it was disappointed in the attorney general’s remarks
The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) has released a statement responding to recent comments on sweepstakes platforms made by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
The group expressed its disappointment and claimed James’ statements that describe sweepstakes platforms as “Illegal” and “dangerous” are a mischaracterization.
The SPGA responded by saying, “Our members operate within well-established legal frameworks, pay appropriate taxes and adhere to a strict code of conduct that includes consumer protections and responsible gaming practices.”
Under federal law, sweepstakes promotions are not considered gambling. Several US states legally permit sweepstakes platforms.
However, the SPGA has reached out to lawmakers in New York to “directly engage” but the association said its outreach “has gone ignored.”
“Instead of working collaboratively to establish clear, modern rules for platforms that offer free-to-play games and do not require a purchase to win, the state has opted for overreach,” the SPGA said.
The association added, “It’s disappointing to see a blanket enforcement action taken without meaningful dialogue or effort to distinguish between compliant companies and truly illegal operators.
“This approach stifles innovation, limits consumer choice, and disregards the legal status of sweepstakes promotions.”
The SPGA recently cited Senate Bill 5935 as “a clear signal that these games are legal” in the Empire State. The group went on to add that any proposal to ban sweepstakes games “would be unnecessary if they were already prohibited under state law.”
The group remains committed to open dialogue with regulators and continues to advocate for players around the country who play these types of games.
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