VGW to ‘phase out’ sweepstakes promotions in New Jersey
The operator confirmed the decision to Gaming America, taking effect on each of VGW’s sweepstakes casinos including Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots and Global Poker.
Key Points
- On June 30, the New Jersey Senate passed bill A5447, which looks to prohibit sweepstakes casino operators from conducting business in the state, with a 34-5 vote
- A VGW spokesperson stated the decision “wasn’t taken lightly” by the operator but was “made in the best interests” of stakeholders following the proposed legislation
Virtual Gaming Worlds (VGW) will begin the process of phasing out its sweepstakes promotions in the state of New Jersey on July 29, when players using Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots or Global Poker will no longer be able to earn sweeps coins from any source.
A VGW spokesperson confirmed the decision to Gaming America, having said, “We can confirm that following careful consideration, we’ve informed players of a decision to phase out Promotional Play (sweepstakes promotions) in the state of New Jersey.
“Our valued players in New Jersey will still be able to enjoy all their favorite free-to-play games using Gold Coins, and we are 100 percent focused on ensuring players are fully informed about the changes, and that this transition is as smooth as possible.”
On June 30, the New Jersey Senate passed bill A5447, which looks to prohibit sweepstakes casino operators from conducting business in the state, with a 34-5 vote and now awaits final signature from Governor Phil Murphy.
Bill A5447 prohibits “sweepstakes model of wagering” and establishes new penalties for operators, executed by the state’s Division of Consumer Affairs and Enforcement.
“But we understand this is an adjustment after many years and some players may be disappointed. This decision wasn’t taken lightly and was made in the best interests of all our stakeholders following recent decisions by legislators,” VGW said.
“VGW has operated in North America for more than a decade, creating not only great games, user experiences and entertainment but ensuring this is done safely, responsibly and at the highest level of standards.”
Good to know: The California Public Safety Committee 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
On August 26, the operator will no longer accept sweeps coins for gameplay, and any mail-in requests for sweeps coins from players will not be processed. By September 24, redemptions will be discontinued on any VGW-affiliated sweepstakes casinos in New Jersey.
New Jersey now joins Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New York and Washington as states where VGW will only allow for gold coins play.
“As we’ve previously said, we acknowledge increased interest in our innovative industry that millions of Americans enjoy, and are committed to respectful engagement on establishing modern, appropriate regulatory and taxation structures that benefit players and states alike. That remains the case in New Jersey, as it does in all states,” VGW said.
New Jersey lawmakers originally proposed the bill in March 2025, having passed through the state Assembly with a 69-10 ruling.
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