Sweepstakes Operators Leave New York Due to Imminent Ban
Jerard V. • Last updated on 2 April 2025
It seems that sweepstakes operators are slowly exiting New York as the state authorities discuss possible ban of their operation. The rumors started on Chumba Casino’s reddit page in light of Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr.’s bill that looks to ban social casinos. This is part of the bigger campaign and pressure from the nation to forbid these casinos.
PlayFame casino already informed customers about their exit and expressed gratitude for continuous support from the community. Other sites that will close their doors in NY are Hello Millions, SpinBlitz, High 5 Casino, and Sports Millions.
At the same time, brands owned by VGW, such as Chumba Casino and Luckyland Slots, haven’t stated anything about their next moves.
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The exit of several sweepstakes casinos from the market came right after the Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA), disclosed that its members would “adjust their approach” in New York, after discussion with state officials.
VGW is currently not a part of the organization, so it’s obvious why they missed to react to the latest decision.
According to the words of SPGA’s spokesperson, innovation in the digital sphere requires a “constructive and informed dialogue with lawmakers”. He further emphasized the state of fantasy sports, and his beliefs that the same trend will apply to sweepstakes promotions.
SPGA explained that each member will decide on the most relevant parth for the future, taking into account legal and strategic sides. This would also result in greater clarity on sweepstakes games and their status.
Sweeps Games Currently Legal in NY
SPGA also expressed his opinion about the sweeps ban, stating that from the current regulatory atmosphere, it’s clear that sweepstakes games are still perfectly legal in New York, as they wouldn’t need a ban if this wasn’t the case.
According to their further statements, they know how urgently state officials want to put sweepstakes casinos in order as their operation has a wider implication. This goes beyond simple promotions provided by giants like Starbucks or Marriott, but also applies to any mobile game where users spend their cash including the mere examples of Coin Master or Monopoly Go.
Bills to forbid sweepstake casinos are on the table in many other US states as part of the broader campaign to put a stop to illegal gambling.
Sources:
- Reddit.com. (2025, March). Update on New York ban. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/ChumbaCasino/comments/1jl4t93/update_on_new_york_ban/
- Social and Promotional Games Association. (2025, March 5). SPGA statement in response to NY Senate Bill S5935. The Social and Promotional Games Association. https://thespga.org/spga-statement-in-response-to-ny-senate-bill-s5935/
