Summary
- SGLA has urged caution against hastily imposing a total ban on sweepstakes in Massachusetts.
- The organization has passionately called on lawmakers to join forces with the SGLA, striving together to shape a more effective framework.
- The SGLA believes that updating the framework could benefit everyone significantly.
The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) has voiced its response to a new legislative proposal in Massachusetts that aims to significantly restrict the influence of social casinos and sweepstakes, potentially leading to a complete ban if enacted.
Bay State lawmakers urged to desist from blanket ban on sweepstakes
House Bill 4431 marks another attempt by lawmakers to tighten the reins on online social games and sweepstakes promotions. If this bill passes, it will effectively put an end to any current social gaming and sweepstakes contests. These contests include beloved activities like slots, poker, table games, lotteries, and sports wagering, which have entertained hundreds of thousands. The SGLA has consistently opposed similar measures in the past. Furthermore, the SGLA argues that Massachusetts, also known as the Bay State, risks forfeiting the many side benefits that accompany a thriving social gaming and sweepstakes industry. Industries such as payment processors, marketing agencies, ISPs, and tech companies could lose their dynamism, creating a more cumbersome environment where they must constantly monitor their clients, leading to decreased competitiveness in the tech world. Jeff Duncan, SGLA's Executive Director and former Congressman, commented on this latest proposal: What voters truly desire is not bans, but smart regulations that safeguard consumers, uphold choice, and bolster the economy.
Modernizing the tax code does not have to come at the expense of business
Duncan has expressed concern that imposing a complete ban on the sector would unfairly target legitimate businesses, turning them into criminals. Instead, the SGLA presents a more viable option: updating the current regulatory framework to enable greater tax contributions from this industry. The alliance warns that completely outlawing these games would have unintended consequences, inflicting economic and financial damage on Massachusetts. Importantly, the SGLA is ready to partner with Bay State lawmakers, working together to create a framework that achieves modernized taxation without criminalizing the industry or harming the state’s economy. This Massachusetts proposal emerges as New Jersey has decided to ban all sweepstakes, a measure now confirmed by the signature of the Garden State’s governor.
