Florida legislators killed a sweepstakes casino bill earlier this year. But one lawmaker is trying again.
Rep. Berny Jacques introduced a bill that would make promoting or operating the product a third-degree felony. House Bill 591 would prohibit any online gambling unless unless offered by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
The bill defines online gaming as “any game in which money or other thing of value is awarded based on chance, regardless of any application of skill, that is available on the Internet and accessible on a mobile device, computer terminal, or other similar access device and simulates casino-style gaming, including, but not limited to, slot machines, video poker, and table games.”
That definition would likely bring an end to any sweepstakes gaming in the state. Along with the online gaming aspects, the bill would also prohibit betting with insider information and limit gambling advertising.
Group Contends That Sweeps Are Following Florida’s Laws
The effort in Florida comes after several states implemented a ban this year. California passed a ban, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation, and a handful of other states prohibited the industry. Other state legislatures are also starting to scrutinize the industry.
Sweeps operators generally use a dual-currency model. It allows players to purchase gold coins, which are used as a defunct play-money currency.
However, users receive sweeps coins with their purchase. They can accumulate and redeem those coins for cash and prizes.
Operators argue that their offerings are different from traditional online gaming. Players can always play for free, without needing to make any purchases. Many point to age restrictions and other safety measures the industry has put in place, and favor regulation over outright bans.
Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) Executive Director Jeff Duncan was disappointed to see another state pushing for a ban. He believes the industry is being lumped in with illegal offshore gaming operators.
“We strongly disagree with the categorization that Social Plus games that utilize sweepstakes promotions have anything in common with illegal offshore gambling operations,” he said. “HB 591 laudably seeks to stop illegal gambling from taking place in the state of Florida but fails to account for how lawful promotional sweepstakes operate in Florida.”
Duncan said SGLA partner companies operate fully within Florida’s sweepstakes, consumer protection, banking, and financial transactions laws. He said the group is committed to further regulation to ensure sweeps games remain a safe outlet for Florida adults age 21 and over seeking casual entertainment.
“We look forward to continuing our constructive relationship with Florida’s legislators,” he said, “and remain committed to ensuring consumers have access to legal and compliant entertainment in the Sunshine State.”
