Sweepstakes Casinos Banned in Montana and Connecticut

Sweepstakes Casinos Banned in Montana and Connecticut

As of October 2025, sweepstakes casinos have been officially banned in both Montana and Connecticut. This development marks a significant shift in the legal landscape for these operators in key U.S. jurisdictions.

Legislation Details and Impact

In Montana, the change comes with the signing of Senate Bill 555 (SB 555) by Governor Greg Gianforte. This legislation revises the definition of "internet gambling" to include platforms often utilizing dual-currency setups, such as sweepstakes sites. Although the term "sweepstakes" is not explicitly mentioned, the broad description of "any form of currency" and related payouts effectively brings these operations into the fold of illegal activities.

Meanwhile, Connecticut has taken a more direct approach. Senate Bill 1235, signed by Governor Ned Lamont, specifically prohibits platforms that support "any real or simulated online casino gaming or sports wagering" through sweepstakes or promotional drawings. This clear-cut language directly targets and bans these operations under state law.

Exceptions and Preemptive Actions

Montana provides a narrow exception: social casinos that do not involve any form of monetary or virtual currency are permitted to continue operations. Despite this, a significant exit of major sweepstakes operators, including VGW’s Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Global Poker, occurred well before the October 1 enforcement date. Such preemptive measures reflected the anticipation of this ban, leading to a substantial industry withdrawal by mid-2025.

National Implications and Future Expectations

Montana is now the first state to broadly outlaw sweepstakes casinos through sweeping gambling definitions, while Connecticut follows as the second state with clear, specific anti-sweepstakes legislation. These decisions heighten the regulatory pressures on operators nationwide. States like New York, New Jersey, and California could face rising expectations to align legal definitions and rules around sweepstakes platforms.

The once-considered legal "gray zones" for sweepstakes casinos are now under scrutiny. Operators must reassess their legal standings and strategies across different states, while players in these affected areas need to adapt quickly to the new regulations.

Looking Ahead

These legislative changes in Montana and Connecticut could serve as catalysts for further regulatory discussions in the United States. As more jurisdictions potentially follow suit, the sweepstakes casino industry may face profound transformations in how it markets and operates nationwide.