A bill has been introduced in Indiana aiming to prohibit online sweepstakes casinos. Known as HB 1052, it was presented by State Representative Ethan Manning to curb two-currency platforms and render them illegal. The proposal targets online sweepstakes chiefly and entails amendments to existing laws, specifying penalties for violators within the state.
Earlier, Manning attempted to pass legislation to legalize iGaming. His iGaming bill would have placed online casinos under the oversight of the Indiana Gaming Commission and required partnerships with established Indiana casinos.
Growing restrictions have seen a significant rise in states banning sweepstakes casinos recently. Changes to Google’s advertising policies for social games now also exclude these casinos. Last week, New York and California prohibited dual-currency sweepstakes casinos too. This system allows players to convert one of the casino’s currencies into cash. Other states that have banned such casinos include Connecticut, Idaho, Montana, New Jersey, and Washington. Some states have demanded the cessation of operations from sweepstake casinos like Chumba, Stake, and WOW Vegas.
The bill defines criteria for an online game, contest, or promotion to qualify as a sweepstakes. It mandates a dual-currency capable of being exchanged for real money, an item of equivalent value, or a chance to win money. Operators or individuals knowingly conducting sweepstakes in Indiana or transacting with someone will incur a $100 fine per violation. No additional penalties are outlined in the bill. Other related bills extend beyond what has been accepted elsewhere.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com