Massachusetts Keeps Internet Gaming Bill H.4431 Alive Ahead of March 16, 2026, Committee Deadline

Massachusetts lawmakers are continuing to review a bill that would address online sweepstakes casinos through legislation rather than stricter enforcement.

As of February 3, 2026, the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies is still reviewing House Bill H.4431, which was introduced by Representative David K. Muradian Jr. in January 2025.

The reporting deadline has been extended to Monday, March 16, 2026. The proposal combines a plan for regulated internet casino gaming with language that would outlaw online sweepstakes casinos across the state.

What Massachusetts Lawmakers Are Considering

House Bill 4431 is drafted as an umbrella framework for internet gaming. If passed, it would create a new chapter of state law that would govern online casino gaming, under the oversight of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.

Among other provisions, the proposal outlines licensing requirements, operational controls, tax rates, responsible gaming standards, and enforcement authority for regulated internet gaming tied to existing casino licensees.

Where Sweepstakes Casinos Fit Into the Bill

As part of its broader effort to regulate internet gaming, H.4431 also proposes how Massachusetts should legally recognize sweepstakes sites.

It starts in the definitions section. In SECTION 1, the bill creates CHAPTER 23O. Then, in CHAPTER 23O, Section 2, the bill lists key terms. Inside that list, the bill defines “Online sweepstakes game” beginning at line 70 and continuing through line 75.

The definition is aimed at describing how sweepstakes casinos actually work, something Massachusetts law has not done before. It characterizes these platforms as chance based games offered online and accessible through a phone or computer, built around a dual currency payment system.

It also spells out the key feature that separates sweepstakes casinos from free to play games, the ability to exchange that virtual currency for prizes, awards, gift cards, cash, or other cash equivalents.

To avoid ambiguity, the bill then ties the definition to familiar casino style products, listing examples such as slots, video poker, table games, lottery games, and sports wagering.

This definition is more than just a description. It includes the enforcement language that appears later in the bill. Specifically, Chapter 23O, Section 19, Subsection (a) makes it illegal to operate, conduct, or promote online sweepstakes games in Massachusetts. Subsection (b) adds more restrictions. It says that companies or individuals that support or assist in these activities are also restricted.

Section 19 also explains what will happen as a result. Subsection (c) says that people who don’t follow the rules can be fined anything from $10,000 to $100,000 for each time they don’t follow the rules. They could also lose their gaming license. Subsection (d) makes it more serious when the same violation happens again. It allows for higher penalties and jail time of up to two years. Subsection (e) then gives the commission the power to investigate suspected violations. This includes the power to hold hearings and issue subpoenas.

What Happens Next

By March 16, 2026, the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies must decide to either report the bill for further consideration, recommend against it, or seek another extension. Until then, the proposal is under review and will not have any immediate regulatory consequences.

The bill’s status means that Massachusetts is in a waiting phase for sweepstakes casino operators and the companies that support them. Any change to how online sweepstakes casinos are treated in the state now depends on what the committee does in the weeks ahead.

🔗 References & Official Filings

Massachusetts General Court (194th Session)

• Legislation: House Bill 4431 (An Act relative to internet gaming)
• Sponsor: Rep. David K. Muradian, Jr. (R-Grafton)
• Official Text: Malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4431
• Key Section: Chapter 23O, Section 2 (Lines 70-75: Definition of “Online sweepstakes game”); Section 19 (Prohibitions & Penalties).

Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies

• Status Update: Extension Order (Filed Dec 4, 2025).
• Next Deadline: Reporting date extended to Monday, March 16, 2026.
• Committee Docket: Malegislature.gov/Committees/Detail/J28

Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC)

• Reference: “White Paper on the Regulation of Online Gambling” (Updated for 2025-2026 Session).
• Context: Outlines the “Dual Currency” risks and proposed consumer protections cited in H.4431.
• Source: MassGaming.com/Research/White-Papers