Sweeps Casinos Now Illegal in Montana & Connecticut

As of October 2025, sweepstakes casinos have been rendered illegal by statute in both Montana and Connecticut, closing legal space for operators in two key U.S. jurisdictions.

Montana’s Senate Bill 555 (SB 555), signed into law by Governor Greg Gianforte, redefines “internet gambling” to include online casinos, even if not named “sweepstakes”, thus targeting dual‑currency sweepstakes sites. 

In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont signed Senate Bill 1235, explicitly prohibiting platforms that “facilitate participation in any real or simulated online casino gaming or sports wagering” via sweepstakes or promotional drawings. 

Different Language, Same Outcome

Montana’s ban is more oblique: SB 555 never uses the word “sweepstakes,” but its sweeping definition of internet gambling includes “any form of currency” and “payouts of any form of currency,” which captures sweepstakes-style mechanics. 

By contrast, Connecticut’s SB 1235 directly names sweepstakes and simulated casino and sports activity, clearly outlawing those operations under state law. 

In Montana, the legislation includes an exception: social casinos that do not allow any monetary or virtual currency usage may still legally operate. 

Industry Exodus Preceded the Ban

Many sweepstakes operators—especially VGW’s brands like Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Global Poker—preemptively withdrew from Montana and Connecticut ahead of October 1. 

Because bans in both states were anticipated, much of the operator pullback was already underway by mid‑2025.

What This Means Nationally

Montana marks the first state to formally outlaw sweepstakes casinos using broadly defined gambling language. Connecticut becomes the second to pass an explicit anti‑sweeps law. 

These developments intensify pressure on operators nationwide. New York, New Jersey, California, and other states now face mounting expectations. Operators may no longer treat sweepstakes platforms as legal “gray zone” offerings.

Reference: 

• Montana Senate Bill 555
• Connecticut Senate Bill 1235