A Unanimous Vote
The vote wasn’t even close and the message to sweepstakes casinos is loud and clear.
The Connecticut Senate just made its position on sweepstakes casinos crystal clear: they’re not welcome. On May 22, the Connecticut Senate voted unanimously (36-0) to pass Senate Bill 1235, which would ban sweepstakes-style casinos and promotional games that simulate real gambling experiences. That includes anything that looks like online slots, table games, or sports betting, even if no real money is technically being wagered.
The bill now moves to the Connecticut House of Representatives, with just days left before the session ends on June 4.
What’s in the Bill?
The legislation draws a clear line:
If you’re offering games that simulate gambling, especially ones using virtual currencies like “Sweeps Coins”, you’re out.
Here’s what’s covered:
- Bans simulated gambling devices and any system that enables real or pretend casino-style play.
- Covers both real and simulated betting, whether money changes hands or not.
- Violations are a Class D felony, carrying up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Expands the enforcement powers of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
Lawmakers also made some notable changes before the final vote. Here are the two provisions that were removed before the vote:
- A provision banning lottery couriers (apps that deliver lottery tickets).
- A section that would’ve let Connecticut join multi-state gaming compacts (like shared poker pools).
Why Now?
Connecticut lawmakers say this is about protecting the state’s legal gambling framework, which currently includes just two authorized operators: FanDuel and DraftKings, both partnered with Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods.
But the rise of sweepstakes casinos, which are platforms that operate in a legal gray area using “no purchase necessary” loopholes, has triggered growing concern. The Department of Consumer Protection has flagged these models as a threat to the state’s regulated ecosystem, warning that they blur the line between entertainment and gambling.
And Connecticut’s not alone. Montana recently became the first state to formally ban sweepstakes-style casinos, and lawmakers in Louisiana and Texas are pushing similar legislation. A national movement against sweepstakes is gaining steam, and Connecticut is clearly getting ahead of it.
What About Retail Sweepstakes?
The bill isn’t trying to kill every sweepstakes promotion. There’s a clear carveout for retail-based giveaways — the kind you see at grocery stores or gas stations — as long as there are no cash prizes involved.
So yes, your local “enter to win a gift card” or “buy chips, win a toaster” promos are still safe. It’s the online simulated slot machines and poker rooms that are on the chopping block.
What’s Next?
Senate Bill 1235 is now headed to the Connecticut House, where it needs to pass before the legislative session wraps on June 4. If the bill clears the House, it could go into effect later this year. That would put Connecticut among a growing list of states actively closing the door on these platforms.
Until then, expect more lobbying, more legal positioning, and maybe a few quiet platform exits before enforcement kicks in.
A Bigger Sweep Coming
What we’re seeing now is a nationwide sweepstakes crackdown:
- Montana was the first to officially ban sweepstakes-style casinos.
- Louisiana and Texas have similar bills in the works.
- New York is turning up the heat, prompting exits from big names like VGW, High 5 Casino, and Funzpoints.
For years, operators thrived in a regulatory gray zone, leaning on “no purchase necessary” loopholes to stay afloat. But in 2025, that gray zone is fading fast, and the rules are finally catching up.
Check Your State’s Rules
If you’re a sweepstakes casino operator, the message is clear: regulators are watching — and acting fast.
If you’re a player, it’s a good time to double-check what’s still legal in your state, and whether your favorite platform is still operating.
The rules are shifting. And they’re shifting fast.
Blaise Luis
