SPGA expresses disappointment after Louisiana approves sweepstakes ban

The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) has expressed its disappointment at the Louisiana House vote yesterday that banned sweepstakes casinos.

According to the body, “Legal sweepstakes platforms operate under well-established guidelines and are used by millions of adults, including Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft and Starbucks, to engage consumers through lawful, free-to-play promotions.”

Senate Bill 181, which seeks to ban sweepstakes casinos in Louisiana, has been unanimously approved by both chambers of the state legislature. The bill passed the Senate on April 29 with a 39-0 vote and the House on June 2 with a 99-0 vote. Authored by Sen. Adam Bass and presented in the House by Rep. Debbie Villio, the legislation aims to protect licensed gaming operators and restrict illegal forms of online gambling.

With full legislative approval, the bill now heads to Governor Jeff Landry for consideration. If signed into law, it is set to take effect on August 1, 2025.

The SPGA stated: “This bill carelessly conflates legal entertainment with illegal gambling, without evidence of harm. It also threatens Louisiana’s economy by stifling digital innovation and driving compliant companies out of the state. It’s a step backward for consumer choice, lawful innovation, and common sense.”

In April, the SPGA voiced its opposition to the proposed sweepstakes ban in Louisiana, stating that social sweepstakes are typically free to play and often used without any financial commitment from users, making them distinct from traditional gambling.

Good to know: In March, the SPGA had also been vocal against the anti-sweepstakes law in New Jersey

The following month, Montana became the first US state to officially prohibit online sweepstakes. The new law reclassifies sweepstakes and promotional games as a form of internet gambling, despite their historical separation from real-money online casino activities.

In contrast, Florida attempted to pass legislation against sweepstakes in May but failed. At the time, the SPGA celebrated the outcome, stating: “This is a huge win, not just for the industry, but for every Floridian who values economic freedom and digital innovation.”

Carlos Mendez

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Odds tell a story long before the result does. When bettors learn to read that story properly, betting becomes a matter of discipline and value rather than emotion or guesswork.

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