California Public Safety Committee unanimously approves anti-sweepstakes bill
Assembly Bill 831 also passed through the state’s Senate Governmental Organization Committee on July 8, prompting a response from organizations such as the SPGA and SGLA.
Key Points
- Light & Wonder Global Head of Government Affairs and Legislative Counsel Howard Glaser confirmed the unanimous approval following the Committee’s hearing on July 15
- The SPGA united with the ACLU and a number of opposition groups to officially stand against AB 831 prior to the Committee’s recent decision
The California Public Safety Committee has unanimously agreed to pass Assembly Bill 831, which looks to prohibit the operation of sweepstakes casinos throughout the state, as confirmed by Light & Wonder Global Head of Government Affairs and Legislative Counsel Howard Glaser on July 15.
Assembly Bill 831 also passed the state’s Senate Governmental Organization Committee on July 8, prompting a response from organizations such as the Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) and the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA).
The SPGA and SGLA united with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and fellow opposition groups on July 14 to fight against AB 831, having said, “The SPGA is proud to stand alongside the ACLU, the Association of National Advertisers and other partners in voicing concerns about AB 831.
“This diverse coalition, including civil liberties advocates, leading businesses and industry groups, reflects a shared belief that the bill, as written, could have unintended consequences for lawful promotional practices without offering clear consumer protections.”
Good to know: California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a statement regarding the legality of daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests on July 3, believing the offering to fall under the state’s definition of gaming and are therefore illegal
Following the state Assembly’s approval of an unrelated piece of legislation back in May 2024, the California Senate then chose to include anti-sweepstakes language as part of AB 831 in June. The state’s legislative session runs until September 12, but bills are allowed to carry over into the 2026 session if required.
Prior to going into effect, the California legislative process dictates AB 831 will require final approval and signature from Governor Gavin Newsom.
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