Connecticut Officially Bans Online Sweepstakes Casinos
Connecticut has officially become the second state to ban online sweepstakes casinos in the United States.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:On Wednesday, June 13, Governor Ned Lamont signed Senate Bill 1235 into law, effectively banning online sweepstakes casinos in the state and imposing penalties for those who operate or promote them.
The measure got to the governor's desk after previously passing in the Senate with amendments and clearing the House with unanimous approval on June 3, just one day before the state's 2025 legislative session adjourned.
Under the new legislation, which is now known as Public Act 25-112, individuals and companies are prohibited from operating or promoting online sweepstakes casinos that are not tied to the sale of goods or services. It also makes it a crime to promote or offer sweepstakes that use simulated gambling devices or are linked to online casinos and sports betting.
The law only allows Sweepstakes games if a retail grocery chain runs them in connection with grocery sales. However, prizes offered in the contest must be non-monetary, with no option for cash redemption.
Violating the provisions of Public Act 25-112 regarding sweepstakes provisions can lead to penalties for professional gambling, will be classified as a Class A misdemeanor, and will attract potential charges for unfair or deceptive trade practices.
More Regulation News
New Markets for Sports Betting
Beyond sweepstakes gaming regulation, the law expands Connecticut's legal wagering options by allowing betting on boxing and mixed martial arts, subject to certain restrictions. It also permits limited betting on tournaments featuring the state's intercollegiate teams.
While the bill initially proposed a ban on lottery ticket couriers and secondary sales, the restriction was removed by the Senate.
Sweestakes Ban Movement Grows
Sweepstakes online casinos are fast becoming a rarity as more states crack down on these types of gaming platforms. Last month, Montana became the first jurisdiction to outlaw them officially, and more states are poised to implement similar measures.
In New York, the state's Senate has voted in favor of banning online sweeps.
RELATED TOPICS: Regulation
Latest News
Responsible Gambling
New South Wales Report Finds Lapses in Responsible Gambling Oversight
Jun 13, 2025
Most Read
Must Read
Interviews
Sweepstakes Casinos: Thriving in an Ever-Changing Industry – Interview with Attorney Stephen C. Piepgrass
Feb 17, 2025
Interviews
Review this New Post
Leave a Comment
User Comments
Comments for Connecticut Officially Bans Online Sweepstakes Casinos