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A fresh proposal in Maryland seeks to tighten the state’s gambling laws by outlawing sweepstakes casinos and other online platforms that rely on dual-currency systems.
Filed as SB112, the measure has been sent to the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee and sets out clear restrictions on interactive games offered within the state.
Under the bill, interactive games are defined broadly to include casino‑style play such as slots, poker, and table games, as well as lottery formats like keno, bingo, and instant win draws. Sports wagering also falls under the definition. Any platform that allows players to use multiple currencies and then convert them into prizes, cash, or equivalents would be prohibited.
Operators have been ignoring C&D letters, new bill will change that
Lawmakers revived last year’s push to ban sweepstakes operators, pairing SB112 with a House companion, HB295, now before the Ways and Means Committee. If both chambers pass the bills, the measures would take effect July 1.
Maryland has already tried to send these platforms away through enforcement. The Lottery and Gaming Control Commission issued cease-and-desist letters to Chumba Casino and LuckyLand Slots, both run by VGW, but the companies did not comply, leading to a second round of letters in November.
The new legislation is designed to give the state clearer authority to force shutdowns. It makes room for games that only award noncash prizes, but violations of the new rules could carry serious consequences.
Offenders risk criminal charges, fines of up to $5,000, and prison terms of as long as three years. If passed, the bill would effectively shut down sweepstakes casino operations in Maryland.
Tough year ahead for sweepstakes industry
Maryland’s push adds to an ongoing crackdown that increased intensity in 2025 and is rolling into 2026.
Indiana has already heard HB1052 in the House Public Policy Committee, with lawmakers split between regulating and banning. The Indiana Gaming Commission says the current law doesn’t clearly give it the power to act against sweepstakes casinos.
Florida lawmakers have filed multiple bills targeting illegal gambling, with proposals to expand law enforcement authority against sweepstakes platforms. Maine will open debate on LD 2007 on January 14 as it moves toward legal online casinos, with a ban on sweepstakes likely on the table to protect the regulated market.
In Iowa, a prefiled bill would give the Racing and Gaming Commission clearer power to issue cease-and-desist orders against online gambling, including sweeps.
