Maine targets online sweepstakes games with new gambling crackdown bill
A new bill in Maine seeks to ban online sweepstakes games that mimic casino-style gambling. Senator Craig Hickman introduced the proposal, which targets platforms using a dual-currency system to simulate sports betting or lotteries. If passed, the law would impose strict penalties on operators and promoters of these games. The bill, known as SP 825, was formally introduced on December 3. Two days later, it was referred to the Committee on Veterans and Legal Affairs for review. The legislation aims to close a loophole by classifying these sweepstakes games as illegal gambling. The legislation now awaits further discussion in committee. If approved, it would make operating or advertising these sweepstakes games a violation of Maine’s gambling laws. Penalties would apply to both businesses and individuals involved in their promotion.
