Indiana Very Close To Banning Sweepstakes Casinos, A Matter of Days Now

Indiana legislators have reached agreement on a bill that would prohibit sweepstakes style online casino platforms, setting up final votes before the March 14 legislative deadline.

Good to Know

• Proposal targets dual currency models that use systems such as gold coins and sweeps coins.
• Regulators could issue civil penalties of up to 100,000 dollars per violation.
• Measure is expected to take effect July 1 if approved.

A joint conference committee made up of House and Senate members ended a brief meeting Monday after aligning on identical language, signaling consensus across both chambers. Minimal discussion reflected broad agreement and strong existing vote margins.

Earlier this month, the House approved the legislation 86 to 12, while the Senate passed its version 37 to 8. Similar margins are expected when both chambers hold final votes in the coming days.

Lawmakers structured the bill to address platforms that simulate casino or lottery style experiences without holding state licenses. Targeted offerings include online slots, video poker, bingo, and sports themed wagering products delivered through sweepstakes frameworks.

Under the proposal, the Indiana Gaming Commission would gain authority to act against operators or individuals who knowingly use the Internet to run sweepstakes games. Enforcement tools include civil fines that could reach 100,000 dollars per incident, a level designed to discourage companies from operating in the state.

Regulators have indicated enforcement focus would remain on operators rather than individual users, though financial exposure could make participation by major sweeps companies unlikely.

Legislation centers on sites that rely on dual or multi currency structures, where virtual tokens can be redeemed for cash prizes or equivalents. Lawmakers argue that model closely mirrors regulated gambling while avoiding licensing and taxation requirements.

Indiana already maintains an established legal gaming market. Statewide mobile sports betting launched in 2019, placing Indiana among the earlier adopters after federal repeal of PASPA. More than a dozen land based casinos operate across the state.

Debate around real money online casino legalization has surfaced in recent legislative sessions but did not advance this year. Policymakers instead prioritized addressing sweepstakes platforms and voiced concern that full iGaming expansion could reduce in person casino revenue and increase problem gambling risks.

The bill, known as HB 1052, also includes adjustments to several other gaming related statutes along with updates tied to alcohol and tobacco oversight.

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