Florida’s Sweepstakes Casino Bill Gets Senate Vote, Gears Up for a House Vote

Sweepstakes casino operators in the Sunshine State will have to wait a few more days to see if there is still a place for their games. Senate Bill 1580, which tackles different gambling issues, including a redefinition of the definition of illegal online gambling, gained the Senate’s approval, with a 34-0 vote. On March 6th, the bill was read for the second and third time, before the full Senate vote was taken.

Before this vote, SB1580 hurdled the Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government, with an 8-0 vote, and the Rules Committee, at 21-1.

Revisiting the Key Points of SB1580

Florida’s SB1580 is a broad legislation targeting a variety of gambling issues, and could potentially impact the sweepstakes casino industry. One of the key points here is its attempt to redefine internet gambling as playing a game online where money or thing of value is awarded, which simulates casino-style gaming. This broad treatment of “thing of value” has ruffled some feathers in the sweepstakes casino industry since it can be interpreted to cover virtual currencies, such as Sweeps Coins (SCs).

Also, the bill significantly boosts enforcement against illegal gambling in the state. It expands the regulatory powers of the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC), raises the criminal penalties for violations, and targets slot machine parlors.

In short, this bill also aims to address the “gray market” loopholes by prohibiting unauthorized online gambling and internet sports betting, while allowing regulated state lottery and cardroom operations.

SB1580 Awaits House Action

As of March 6th, SB1580 has been cleared and approved by the Senate and sent to the House. No House action has been scheduled yet, but the state’s regular legislative session will end on March 13th. In short, the Florida House and its assigned committee have “a tight schedule” to consider, amend and reconcile the bill before sine die.

Although the bill’s proponents face a tight schedule, momentum favors this legislation. It will benefit from a unanimous Senate approval (34-0), and its companion bill in the House, HB189, has recently cleared its committees, reflecting bipartisan support.

If passed, the law would take effect on October 1, 2026.

REFERENCES

• SB1580