Louisiana Governor Vetoes Anti-Sweepstakes Bill

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry exercised his veto power against a bill that would have cracked down on online sweepstakes games. While the bill promised to tackle illegal gambling, Landry emphasized that the state’s existing structures are already addressing these concerns.

“This bill is a solution in search of a problem that is already being solved by our current system and some of the language in this bill is overly broad and could be interpreted in an adverse manner, which may harm or impede our current enforcement actions taken against these bad actors,” Landry said.

Governor Landry highlighted the ongoing efforts by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board and other state entities to combat illegal gambling activities.

He reassured the public that the Board, in collaboration with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office and the Louisiana State Police Gaming Division, actively monitors illegal offshore wagering and online sweepstakes companies. These agencies are prepared to issue cease-and-desist letters to entities that attempt to flout Louisiana’s gaming regulations.

Louisiana Governor Deemed SB 181 “Not Necessary”

Governor Landry criticized the proposed bill (SB 181) as “not necessary” due to its overly broad language. He felt this could negatively impact current enforcement efforts against illegal gambling, and argued that the bill might inadvertently hamper initiatives that target sites the state already pursues effectively.

Despite the possibility of enough votes to override the veto, the legislature is unlikely to take such action.

Historically, the Louisiana legislature has been reluctant to call veto sessions, having done so only once since 1974. That session occurred in 2022, when the political dynamics differed, with a Democrat as governor and a Republican-controlled legislature. Governor Landry has indicated his intention to call a special session, seeking further legislative dialogue on the matter.

Support for the Veto From Industry Groups

The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) praised Governor Landry’s decision to veto the bill, asserting that it safeguarded legal digital entertainment platforms enjoyed by many Louisiana residents. The SPGA emphasized that not all online games constitute gambling and that innovation should be encouraged rather than stifled.

Sweepstakes-based games are distinct from gambling as they operate within clear legal boundaries.

These games are free to play, do not require purchases for a chance to win, and are widely used by major companies like Microsoft and Starbucks to engage consumers. Confusing these legitimate models with illegal gambling could lead to misinformation and hinder consumer choice.

Louisiana Aligns With Other States

By vetoing this bill, Louisiana aligns itself with states like Maryland, Mississippi, and Florida that have similarly rejected efforts to ban legal sweepstakes entertainment.

This decision underlines a commitment to protecting consumer freedom and supporting lawful digital business models. It also serves as a reminder to other states to consider the broader implications of such legislation on innovation and consumer rights.

Play Sweepstakes Casino Games Online in Louisiana

For those interested in playing sweepstakes casino games in Louisiana, it’s important to know that they offer an experience similar to traditional casino games but with one significant difference: they require no purchase to play or win.

Instead of real money, players use Gold Coins (GC) or Sweepstakes Coins (SC) provided by the platform to engage in a variety of games, such as slots or poker. These credits can often be acquired in two ways—through free giveaways or by purchasing them alongside an independent product, like virtual coins or social games.