Louisiana Moves Closer to Ban on Sweepstakes Casinos
A bill that aims to ban sweepstakes casinos in Louisiana has taken a significant step forward, with Senate Bill 181 (SB181) being unanimously approved by the House of Representatives with a vote of 99-to-0. According to reporting by Deadspin, if SB181 is signed into law, sweepstakes casinos would be banned in the state as of August 1, 2025.
This development would make Louisiana the fourth state to explicitly ban sweepstakes casinos, joining Montana, Washington, and Michigan. As noted by Deadspin, SB181 has been making its way through the legislative process, with key events including its introduction by Sen. Adam Bass in April 2025, its passage through the Senate, and its clearance by the House Committee of Criminal Justice and Legislative Bureau.
The bill defines illegal sweepstakes gaming as "any game, contest, or promotion that is available on the internet or accessible on a mobile phone, computer terminal, or similar access device that utilizes a dual-currency system of payment allowing the player to exchange the currency for any prize or award or cash or cash equivalents." This would include forms of gambling such as casino-style gaming, lottery games, and sports wagering. Operators that violate this bill could face fines of up to $100,000.
The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) has expressed opposition to the bill, arguing that sweepstakes games on free-to-play platforms operate within the bounds of legal sweepstakes laws. As Deadspin reported, the SPGA stated that "the vast majority of users never spend a dime – they play for entertainment and the excitement of winning prizes at no cost." The SPGA’s position is that since these sweepstakes sites do not require users to make a purchase, they should remain legal.
The bill’s progression has been influenced by recent developments in other states. In late May 2025, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte signed SB 555 into law, becoming the first state to ban sweepstakes gambling. This has had a ripple effect, with Louisiana and other states considering similar measures. The SPGA has also criticised Montana’s decision, stating that the law would have unintended consequences on marketing practices due to its vague language.
SB181 has now been sent to Gov. Jeff Landry for consideration, and it remains to be seen whether the bill will be signed into law. If it is, Louisiana would join a growing list of states that have taken steps to regulate or ban sweepstakes casinos. As Deadspin noted, the bill’s fate will have significant implications for the sweepstakes industry and for consumers who use these platforms.
The next step for SB181 involves its return to the Senate, where lawmakers will consider whether to make any amendments to the bill. If it is passed, it will then be sent to Gov. Landry for his signature. As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that the debate over sweepstakes casinos will remain a contentious issue in Louisiana and beyond. According to Deadspin, only time will tell what the final outcome will be.
