Senator from Louisiana Advocates for Prohibition of Sweepstakes Gambling Establishments
Whatcha Need to Know About That Sweepstakes Casino Ban in Louisiana
Hey there, folks! Let's dive into the latest happenings in the gaming industry, focusing on the potential ban of sweepstakes casinos in Louisiana.
Larry Henry, the Voice of Gaming Reporting
This veteran journalist has been shaking up the media scene for years, with stints at the Las Vegas Sun, KFSM-TV, and various outlets across gaming hotspots like Tennessee and Louisiana. Keep him on your radar for the lowdown on the gaming world.
The Proposed Ban: Senate Bill 181
Introduced by Sen. Adam Bass (R-Bossier City), Senate Bill 181 seeks to outlaw illegal gambling websites and mobile applications, specifically targeting sweepstakes casinos. The bill has been assigned to the Senate Committee on Finance, but we're still waiting for a hearing date. If passed, it will need approval from the House of Representatives before going to Gov. Jeff Landry for his consideration. The legislative session ends on June 12th.
Sweepstakes Casinos: The Struggle Against Online Gaming Loopholes
These platforms, operating in 47 states, including Louisiana, attract gamblers by offering coins with "no monetary value." Players utilize these coins to play digital slot machines and redeem sweepstakes cash for real money. By adding steps to the process, sweepstakes casinos have managed to operate legally in states that otherwise prohibit online gambling.
Critics argue that these casinos avoid common gaming industry requirements and taxes, as they do not currently face the same state oversight as legal gambling operators.
Opposition: The Social and Promotional Games Association Joins the Fray
The association defends sweepstakes casinos, claiming they operate under "no purchase necessary" rules and provide entertainment for players with minimal investment. However, the association believes lumping these games together with gambling is both legally inaccurate and economically and culturally insensitive.
iGaming: The Legal Landscape
Online casino gambling, or iGaming, is currently legal in only seven states, with Louisiana not among them. It's worth noting that online sports betting is legal in Louisiana, but online casino games are still off the table.
The Gaming Control Board is currently unaware of any bills attempting to legalize iGaming in Louisiana this session.
A Nationwide Perspective
Sweepstakes casino bans are cropping up in several states, including Connecticut and Nevada, with varying approaches and outcomes. For instance, Nevada is not explicitly banning sweepstakes casinos but is instead bolstering its regulatory powers to tackle unlicensed operators.
In other states, such as Florida and Maryland, attempts to pass similar legislation have fallen flat so far this year. Keep an eye on New Jersey and New York, as they are expected to consider restrictions as their legislative sessions approach their end.
Until then, stay informed with Larry Henry, your trusted guide through the ever-evolving world of gaming and online gambling!
Stay informed on the current news surrounding the potential ban of sweepstakes casinos in Louisiana, as Senator Adam Bass introduces Senate Bill 181 to outlaw illegal gambling websites and mobile applications.Understand the ongoing debate between casino and gaming associations, like the Social and Promotional Games Association, and critics who argue against the legal loopholes used by sweepstakes casinos to bypass traditional gaming industry requirements and taxes.
