Dara Casino Becomes Fourth Sweeps Site to Exit California

Dara Casino officially blocked California users on October 1, becoming the fourth known sweepstakes casino to exit the state amid mounting uncertainty around Assembly Bill 831 (AB831). 

The site now lists 10 restricted states, including Connecticut, New York, Nevada, Ohio, and Michigan.

It’s unclear if California users can still redeem Sweeps Coins after Oct. 1 or if redemption was cut off alongside access.

AB831 Awaits Newsom’s Action

Passed unanimously on Sept. 12, AB831 would ban sweepstakes casinos in California like Dara Casino starting January 1, 2026. The bill is now with Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has until October 12 to sign it, reject it, or let it pass without a signature.

Most industry watchers expect the bill to become law. However, Victor Rocha, chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, suggested Newsom may avoid formally signing to sidestep backlash from younger voters.

Industry Groups Urge Veto, Cite Lost Revenue

The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance and others are lobbying for a veto. A report from Eilers & Krejcik Gaming estimates a regulated sweeps market could generate $200M–$300M in annual tax revenue, with $1.3 billion in total economic impact.

Major operators like VGW have already started collecting sales tax in live markets to signal willingness to comply with state regulations.

Fallout Hits Small Operators First

California accounts for 17.3% of the U.S. sweeps market, and its potential loss has already affected national projections—2025 revenue forecasts dropped from $4.6B to $4.0B, and 2026 fell to $3.6B.

Operators are adjusting fast. Baba Casino reopened in six states in September. Meanwhile, Vivaro.us shut down entirely on October 1, citing “regulatory uncertainty.”

The pressure is building, and California’s final decision could reshape the future of the U.S. sweeps landscape.

References:

• California Legislative