Maine Eyes Sweepstakes Casinos Ban Hearing as Florida Bill Advances to Committee

It’s “trouble ahead” for sweepstakes casinos operating in Maine and Florida. After getting pre-filed in early December, Maine’s Legislative Document 2007 is now scheduled for its first hearing before the Joint Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee on January 14th. It’s the first hearing for a sweepstakes casino ban bill for 2026 and signals another difficult year for the broader industry.

In Florida, lawmakers have filed House Bill 591 (HB 591), which is now under the House Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee—a crucial step in the state’s bid to ban sweepstakes casino games.

The latest moves follow the lead of five states, including New York and California, which already banned these platforms in 2025.

What to Expect from Maine’s LD 2007?

Maine’s Legislative Document 2007 (LD 2007) targets the dual-currency model that’s used by popular sweepstakes casinos. The bill clarifies these games as part of “unlawful gambling”, pursuant to the state’s Criminal Code, and carries fines of up to $100,000, including license revocations.

The bill’s early scheduling suggests a strong momentum behind the campaign to ban sweepstakes casinos. If passed, platforms built on the dual-currency model may be forced to leave the state or revamp their business models.

Florida Takes Steps Towards Banning Sweepstakes Casino Games

In Florida, lawmakers have drafted House Bill 591 (HB 591), and it sits with the House Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee. The bill redefines “internet gambling” to include games that reward players with money or something of value, based on chance.

Like other state bills on sweepstakes gaming, HB 591 aims to impose penalties on firms or individuals operating or running these platforms. Interestingly, the bill exempts gaming under the Seminole Tribe’s company, which currently controls most of the state’s gambling industry.

REFERENCES

• 132nd MAINE LEGISLATURE