Mississippi Lawmaker Moves to Ban Sweepstakes Casinos

Article by : Erik Gibbs Jan 28, 2025

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Mississippi is ramping up efforts to address the growing presence of online sweepstakes casinos through Senate Bill 2510, introduced by State Senator Joey Fillingane. The proposed legislation aims to ban online sweepstakes casino-style platforms statewide, reflecting concerns about their legality and societal impact. Alongside sweepstakes casinos, the bill also seeks to outlaw online sports pools and racebooks, making their operation illegal in Mississippi.

The measure amends the Mississippi Code of 1972 and sets out severe penalties for violators. Any individual or entity caught operating these platforms could face felony charges, with fines of up to $100,000 and prison sentences of up to ten years for each violation. In addition, violators risk the forfeiture of any assets or rights associated with the illegal activities. 

Legal proceedings against offenders would take place either in the county of the violation or in Hinds County, providing a structured approach to enforcement. The bill also authorizes law enforcement to seize and destroy any devices used in connection with sweepstakes casinos, extending the ban to Mississippi’s riverboat gaming sector.

One challenge facing the legislation is its lack of a clear definition for “online sweepstakes casino-style games.” This ambiguity could complicate enforcement and lead to legal challenges. Despite this issue, Mississippi Gaming Commissioner Executive Director Jay McDaniel has stated that such games are considered unlawful under current state rules, reinforcing the push for the bill.

This is part of a broader trend across the US as states grapple with how to regulate or eliminate sweepstakes casinos. While Mississippi is pursuing an outright ban, other states like New Jersey are exploring regulatory frameworks. 

Recently, New Jersey introduced legislation requiring sweepstakes casinos to apply for licenses as regulated entities. This approach highlights the divide in how states view these platforms—some see regulation as a way to ensure oversight and consumer protection. In contrast, others view banning them as a more effective solution.

The rise of online sweepstakes casinos has brought significant controversy nationwide. These platforms often blur the lines between legal gaming and gambling, creating confusion for consumers and regulatory bodies alike. While many offer games that claim to be free or use virtual currency, critics argue they mimic traditional gambling too closely, leading to addiction and financial harm. 

The lack of a unified approach across states further complicates the issue, with each jurisdiction left to interpret and address the legality of sweepstakes casinos independently.

Mississippi’s move to ban sweepstakes casinos reflects a broader concern about their impact on communities and the potential for unregulated platforms to exploit legal loopholes. Whether Senate Bill 2510 succeeds in its goal, the debate over sweepstakes casinos is far from over, both in Mississippi and across the US.