Montana's fresh Sweepstakes Law Criticized by the SPGA
Montana's SB555, signed into law by Governor Greg Gianforte on May 12, will effectively ban sweepstakes casinos in the state starting October 1, 2025. The law targets any online gambling platform that uses currency for play, including offshore operations, effectively removing the "social casino" or "sweepstakes casino" model from Montana’s online landscape.
The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) has voiced opposition to the bill, citing its "vague and sweeping" nature. The association, along with other industry groups, argues that sweepstakes casinos operate legally within existing state and federal frameworks. They maintain these platforms enable social gaming and are not considered gambling under the law, as users cannot wager real money but play with virtual coins that can be exchanged for sweepstakes entries.
The controversy around SB555 is linked to ongoing legal battles and broader skepticism about the effectiveness of such bans. A class-action lawsuit against Virtual Gaming Worlds, the company behind platforms like Chumba Casino and LuckyLand Slots, is a prime example, with plaintiffs, including a Montana resident, alleging that these platforms ran illegal gambling operations in states where online gambling is not permitted.
The SPGA's opposition to SB555 stems from concerns about legality, consumer access, and potential economic impact. They argue that banning these platforms limits consumer choice and access to entertainment. Additionally, they contend such bans harm businesses and the jobs they provide. The association supports regulation and oversight as an alternative to outright bans, advocating for consumer protections and responsible gaming initiatives.
Richard Janvrin, a professional writer specializing in sports, sports betting, and online casinos, has provided in-depth coverage of this issue for Casino.com. His reporting connects this legislative action to broader legal challenges and the industry’s defense of its legality and business model.
- The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) has voiced opposition to Montana's SB555, arguing that sweepstakes casinos operate legally within existing state and federal frameworks.
- Richard Janvrin, a professional writer specializing in sports, sports betting, and online casinos, has reported on the controversy surrounding SB555, connecting it to ongoing legal battles and the industry’s defense of its legality and business model.
- The SPGA contends that banning sweepstakes casinos limits consumer choice and access to entertainment, and argues that such bans can harm businesses and the jobs they provide.
- The controversy over SB555 is linked to the broader issue of policy-and-legislation, politics, and general-news regarding the legality of online gaming platforms, with ongoing legal battles and skepticism about the effectiveness of such bans.
