New Indiana Bill Could Shut Down Sweepstakes Casinos Across the State

Indiana is set to join the growing list of US states that ban sweepstakes casino operations. According to multiple reports, Indiana State Representative Ethan Manning, chair of the House Public Policy Committee, has recently introduced House Bill 1052 aimed at banning sweepstakes casino operations. 

The bill was co-filed by Representatives Peggy Mayfield and Justin Moed, which is a multi-part piece of legislation which aims to amend some parts of the state’s laws related to gaming and wagering.

Currently, real-money casino gaming isn’t legal, with sweepstakes casino sites with a dual currency model allowed and operating.

Here’s What HB 1052 Says

Representative Manning’s bill aims to define “sweepstakes games” and prohibit their use and operations. Here’s what we know so far:

• HB 1052 defines the “sweepstakes games” as those that are built on the dual-currency system. In a sweepstakes casino site, a player purchases a specific currency and swaps it for a real-world prize, like bonus cash or vouchers.
• “Sweepstakes games” also simulate casino-style gaming. For example, slot machines, video poker, lottery, bingo, or even sports betting may fall under this category.
• Operators violating this law will face civil penalties of up to $100,000. Interestingly, the bill doesn’t assign penalties to suppliers or affiliates.

HB 1052 Spells Out Changes in the State’s Broader Gaming Laws

Indiana’s HB 1052 also proposes changes to the broader state’s gaming industry. The bill also aims to expand the state’s voluntary self-exclusion program. This program ensures that players who opt out of casino gaming are also excluded from sports betting services. Also, the bill’s draft highlights some changes to horse racing safety and regulatory protocols.

Indiana’s latest gaming bill comes amid a broader trend of US states tightening or banning sweepstakes casinos. Critics say that even if these sites are built on the dual currency model, they’re still considered unregulated forms of gambling. New York is the latest US state to ban sweepstakes casinos, and Florida and Maine have filed similar bills as well.

REFERENCES

• HB 1052