Governor’s Veto Halts Louisiana Sweepstakes Casino Ban—No Veto Overide Expected

Louisiana’s sweepstakes casino industry lives on for another day after Governor Jeff Landry vetoed the bill that aims to ban these websites. Senate Bill 1811 of the 2025 Regular Session by Senator Adam Bass was found “unnecessary”, and added that the current Louisiana Gaming Control Board, together with the State Police Gaming Division and the Office of the Attorney General, are enough to address existing enforcement. 

Shortly after the Landry veto, the Louisiana Attorney General issued a formal statement, explaining that sites that use a dual-currency model are deemed illegal under state laws, and the state has been issuing cease-and-desist letters against these platforms.

Senate Bill 1811 “Unnecessary”, Louisiana Gaming Control Board Has Jurisdiction

In a letter to Cameron Henry, the President of the Senate, Governor Landry formally informed the Senate leadership about his decision to veto the bill. Landry explained that the bill, which aims to criminalize certain secondary activities online, is already prohibited in the state.

The governor added that the state’s Louisiana Gaming Control Board has “the regulatory authority, control, and jurisdiction over all aspects of gaming activities and operations pursuant to the Louisiana Gaming Control Law”.

He further added that the Board is joined by the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division and the Office of the Attorney General in overseeing regulations.

Governor Landry also listed the state’s gaming board’s accomplishments in relation to regulation and enforcement. He stated that the government is already taking active steps, especially against illegal online sweepstakes sites and offshore wagering platforms.

Recently, the Board issued a cease-and-desist order to Harp Media B.V., the owner and operator of Bovada.

No Chance for Senate Bill 1811 to Become a Law

Immediately after the Governor’s veto, the Office of the Attorney General released a legal opinion explaining that platforms that use a dual-currency model (like Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins) are illegal under state laws.

According to Attorney General Liz Murril, these platforms are operating “in violation of Louisiana law”. Players’ activities on these sites constitute illegal gambling and violate multiple provisions. Ms. Murril added that authorities will continue to issue cease-and-desist letters against operators violating these laws. So, while the governor has vetoed a legislative ban, existing rules and laws are in place to keep these platforms in check.

As of September 2025, no veto override session is scheduled until December. In short, there’s no chance that SB 1811 becomes a law this year, offering sweepstakes casino operators more time to explain their game or propose a new framework for the industry ahead of the 2026 legislative sessions.

REFERENCES:

• State of Louisiana
• Office of the Attorney General