Lawmakers in Louisiana have moved ahead with a plan to outlaw sweepstakes casinos, drawing criticism from the Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA). The decision has sparked concern from those who believe the bill may restrict legal business models that rely on free-to-play promotional games.
Good to know
- The bill passed both the Louisiana House and Senate without a single vote against it.
- If signed by the governor, the ban will begin on August 1, 2025.
- SPGA warns the decision could push legal platforms out of the state.
A full ban on sweepstakes casinos is now on track to become law in Louisiana. Senate Bill 181, introduced by Sen. Adam Bass and carried in the House by Rep. Debbie Villio, has passed through both chambers unanimously. The Senate approved it 39-0 in April, and the House followed with a 99-0 vote on June 2.
The proposal now sits on Governor Jeff Landry’s desk. If he signs it, the new restrictions will come into effect starting August 1, 2025. The bill targets what lawmakers view as unregulated gambling practices that operate under the sweepstakes model, which has gained popularity in online spaces.
The SPGA has responded strongly. “This bill carelessly conflates legal entertainment with illegal gambling, without evidence of harm,” the organization said. It argues that sweepstakes platforms are widely used for promotional campaigns by major brands like Microsoft and Starbucks and do not involve direct gambling.
The association also warned that the new law could harm Louisiana’s digital business environment. “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,” the SPGA added.
The group had already made its stance clear back in April, stating that many sweepstakes platforms do not require any payment and should not be lumped in with real-money gambling. These types of platforms often rely on free credits or promotional entries to maintain compliance with existing laws.
Louisiana is not the first state to consider such measures. In May, Montana officially banned online sweepstakes by classifying them as a form of internet gambling. That law changed how promotional games are viewed under state regulation.
Meanwhile, Florida attempted to pass similar restrictions in May but failed to gain legislative approval. SPGA welcomed that outcome, calling it a win for both the industry and consumers who support digital access and free-market tools.
Back in March, the association also challenged anti-sweepstakes legislation in New Jersey, showing a consistent push to defend promotional games across multiple states.
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