Indiana Could Surprise as Sweepstakes Casino Support Gains Steam

Last January 6th, Indiana fired the opening salvo for its campaign to ban sweepstakes casino games this year. Legislators and stakeholders clashed over the merits of HB 1052, with the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) offering the strongest voice of opposition, as Nate Friend called these platforms “problematic.” 

However, last week’s debate delivered a surprising development for the state’s sweepstakes casino operators. What was once considered a slam-dunk case may never happen—or could face long odds.

At least two Indiana legislators have spoken against an outright ban: Rep. Steve Bartels and Rep. Jim Lucas. For Rep. Bartels, regulating sweepstakes casinos “is a good public policy”, with Rep. Lucas voicing a similar stance, adding that he’s “100% against” an outright ban on these games.

Regulation Over Ban:  An Answer to a More Balanced Industry?

House Bill 1052, a bill filed by Rep. Ethan Manning, with Reps. Peggy Mayfield aims to define and regulate certain sweepstakes-style games, specifically banning sites that operate using the dual-currency model. For the bill’s supporters, playing at sweepstakes casinos resembles traditional gambling and puts players at risk.

However, the January 14 hearing presented a different perspective on the proposed legislation. Several lawmakers in attendance expressed reservations on the bill’s language, and some called for a more “flexible appreciation” of the proposal.

Rep. Steve Bartels started the ball rolling by calling for regulation instead of a ban, suggesting Amendment 6. The Bartels’ amendment calls for the establishment of a regulatory framework, where interested and qualified operators can apply and pay the $100k registration. Under a new framework, operators are subject to annual audits and must comply with the strict requirements of the Attorney General.

“I’m 100% Against Outright Ban”, Says Rep. Lucas

In the same hearing, Rep. Lucas supported Bartel’s call, stating that he’s “100% against the ban”. The lawmaker added that sweepstakes casino operators have been operating for a decade, and offered a service enjoyed by locals. He challenged his colleagues to find a way to make these games work. Lucas further argued that the body must be fair and equitable, and give gaming a chance.

Rep. Cory Criswell also chimed in, supporting a regulation.

Indiana’s Debate on Sweepstakes Could Deliver a Refreshing Result

Unlike California and New York, Indiana’s campaign to stop sweepstakes casinos features balanced debates. While the campaigns in the two states were aggressive and the filing of bills was a mere formality, the future of Indiana’s proposal remains in question. 

Based on the results of the initial hearing last January 6th, it’s possible that sweepstakes casino operators can claim a win-win scenario.

REFERENCES

• House Bill 1052