Summary
- The state nearly passed a comprehensive anti-sweepstakes bill, but it was blocked by Governor Jeff Landry.
- The state has persisted in targeting unlicensed gambling websites and questioning the legality of sweepstakes social casinos.
- New York is another state that is aggressively targeting the sweepstakes and illegal gambling industry.
The Louisiana Gaming Control Board has sent cease-and-desist letters to 40 companies it determined were operating without the required licenses in the state.
Louisiana targets gambling operators, including sweepstakes
Entities have 14 days to comply with regulations concerning offshore betting sites and sweepstakes operators targeted by Louisiana. Recently, the state sought to pass legislation that would have criminalized sweepstakes. However, Governor Jeff Landry intervened, asserting that the state regulator already had adequate means to halt such operations. While Gov. Landry acknowledged that sweepstakes constitute illegal gambling, he refrained from vetoing a bill meant to aid the sector. Instead, he ensured the law would not be misused in the future. The Louisiana Gaming Control Board remains dedicated to enforcing its regulations, with Chairman Christopher B. Hebert commenting on the most recent cease-and-desist orders: These actions send a clear message. Louisiana will not tolerate illegal operators that jeopardize our citizens and compromise the integrity of our gaming industry. We will continue to utilize all enforcement tools to protect the public and ensure compliance. Gov. Landry agreed with Hebert, emphasizing that all relevant authorities, including the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, the LSP Gaming Division, and the regulator, are committed to pursuing illegal gambling businesses in the state.
Regulators are cracking down on sweepstakes nationally
We will persist in sending additional cease-and-desist letters to similar illegal offshore betting and online sweepstakes companies that deliberately structure their operations to evade Louisiana's gaming laws and regulations, Landry stated. Louisiana, along with other states, is committed to combating the illegal gambling sector, which has been a persistent issue. However, there is a recent focus on opposing sweepstakes activities. Recently, New York passed a new bill specifically targeting sweepstakes, with the governor's signature being the final step needed for its enactment.
