California introduces anti-sweepstakes bill, SPGA responds
The legislation is expected to be similar to a recently approved bill in New York, addressing organizations such as financial institutions, gaming suppliers, geolocation services and more.
Key Points
- While the bill has not yet been made public, figures such as IGA Conference Chairman Victor Rocha have already commented on its existence
- New York became the fifth state to prohibit sweepstakes casinos, joining Connecticut, Louisiana, Montana and Nevada on June 18
California lawmakers have reportedly introduced legislation that would prohibit sweepstakes casino operators from conducting business within the state, prompting a response from the Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA).
While the bill’s terms have not been made public at the time of writing, IGA Conference Chairman Victor Rocha and Light & Wonder Global Head of Government Affairs and Legislative Counsel Howard Glaser confirmed its introduction.
Rocha shared that he and California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) Chairman James Siva will discuss the legislation on June 25, while Glaser confirmed organizations such as financial institutions, gaming suppliers, geolocation services and more will be addressed.
The SPGA believes California lawmakers attempted a “backroom ban” on sweepstakes casinos through a “controversial gut and amend maneuver” hours before a legislative deadline.
Good to know: The SPGA released a response to the Maine Gambling Control Unit’s characterization of sweepstakes-based gaming on June 9, which issued a warning to residents regarding illegal gambling websites and applications
“This isn’t how sound policy gets made. A last-minute effort to outlaw legal digital games, without public debate, expert input or economic analysis, sends a chilling message to entrepreneurs, innovators and investors across the state,” a spokesperson for the SPGA said.
“California voters didn’t sign on for backroom deals dictated by powerful political interests. With the state facing wildfires, a housing crisis and a full federal assault on Californians’ rights, it’s astounding that any lawmaker would make banning mobile games a priority.”
If passed, California would join Connecticut, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada and New York in outlawing sweepstakes casinos, with the Empire State having approved a bill to do so on June 18.
Tags/Keywords
Players trust our reporting due to our commitment to unbiased and professional evaluations of the iGaming sector. We track hundreds of platforms and industry updates daily to ensure our news feed and leaderboards reflect the most recent market shifts. With nearly two decades of experience within iGaming, our team provides a wealth of expert knowledge. This long-standing expertise enables us to deliver thorough, reliable news and guidance to our readers.
Latest News
