Bill Approved in New Jersey to Halt Anti-Homeless Sweeps, Awaiting Governor's Approval
In a significant move for the online gaming industry, the New Jersey Legislature has passed bill A5447, which aims to ban sweepstakes casino operators within the state. The bill, which is currently awaiting Governor Phil Murphy's signature, was passed with a strong vote of 34-5 in the Senate and 69-10-1 in the Assembly.
The main provisions of the bill outlaw the "sweepstakes model of wagering," targeting online gaming operations that use a dual-currency system common among sweepstakes casinos. The bill also includes new penalties for violations and directs the Division of Consumer Affairs and Enforcement to enforce these penalties. Furthermore, the bill criminalizes the promotion of sweepstakes operators within New Jersey, impacting affiliates and influencers who work with these brands.
The bill contains carve-outs allowing legitimate promotional contests by companies like fast-food chains to continue operating within the law's scope. The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA), representing sweepstakes operators, has criticized the bill, calling it rushed and claiming it mischaracterizes the sweepstakes industry by ignoring data and innovation. They argue that the bill threatens New Jersey’s reputation as a hub for tech and entertainment and warned it could impact promotional platforms by companies like Marriott and Microsoft.
The SPGA also warned that banning these platforms could drive players to offshore, less regulated sites, potentially increasing consumer risk and hurting the local economy. The legislation follows similar bans in five other states, making New Jersey the sixth state to prohibit sweepstakes casinos. In contrast, Louisiana's governor vetoed a similar bill.
Richard Janvrin, a professional writer specializing in sports, sports betting, and online casinos, has been closely following this development. His work, which can be found on various online platforms under the 'Related News' section, covers various topics such as how-to guides, online casino reviews, bonus/promotion overviews, and breaking news. Janvrin, who graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in English/Journalism, began his casino writing journey following the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act in 2018.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it's crucial to maintain a clear and precise understanding of regulatory changes. With his dedication to delivering the most current and precise news in the online casino industry, Richard Janvrin is at the forefront of this exciting and dynamic field.
[1] NJ Advance Media. (2025, June 30). New Jersey Senate approves bill to ban sweepstakes casinos. Retrieved from https://www.nj.com/politics/2025/06/new-jersey-senate-approves-bill-to-ban-sweepstakes-casinos.html
[2] Online Poker Report. (2025, June 30). New Jersey Senate passes bill to ban sweepstakes casinos. Retrieved from https://www.onlinepokerreport.com/2025/06/30/new-jersey-senate-passes-bill-to-ban-sweepstakes-casinos/
[3] SPGA. (2025, July 1). SPGA statement on New Jersey's proposed ban on sweepstakes casinos. Retrieved from https://www.sweepstakesgames.org/news/spgas-statement-on-new-jerseys-proposed-ban-on-sweepstakes-casinos/
[4] Casino.org. (2025, July 1). New Jersey Senate Approves Bill to Ban Sweepstakes Casinos. Retrieved from https://www.casino.org/news/new-jersey-senate-approves-bill-to-ban-sweepstakes-casinos/
- Amid the recent regulatory changes in the online gaming industry, sports betting and online casino specialist, Richard Janvrin, has been closely monitoring the New Jersey Legislature's decision to ban sweepstakes casinos through bill A5447.
- As the bill awaits Governor Phil Murphy's signature, it is important to note that it not only outlaws "sweepstakes model of wagering" but also introduces new penalties, targets affliates, influencers, and online gaming operations using a dual-currency system.
- The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA), representing sweepstakes operators, has criticized the bill, maintaining that it is rushed, misrepresents the industry, and could negatively impact technology and entertainment in New Jersey, potentially driving players to offshore sites and negatively affecting the local economy.
