VGW Slams CA Lawmakers for Rushing Sweeps Ban, Reveals Exit Timeline

Two months after Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 831 into law, criticism persists.

VGW, the operator behind LuckyLand Slots and Chumba Casino, has once again expressed its frustrations with California’s controversial decision to ban sweepstakes casinos beginning January 1, 2026. VGW called it a “rushed legislative process” and a move that potentially deprives the state of billions in tax revenues.

In response, VGW has pulled the plug on Sweeps Coins (SCs) gameplay beginning December 30th, and added that they have “informed players of a decision to phase out Promotional Play”.  

VGW Confirms Exit, Hits California’s Legislators Over “Rushed Legislation”

VGW has officially confirmed its decision to leave California, phasing out SC gameplay beginning December 30th. While the company has already complied with the law, it continues to express its frustrations over this development. VGW described the signing of the law as a “disappointing outcome for players and the state”. 

The sweeps casino operator has campaigned for a “sensible approach to regulations and taxation on Social Plus games”, but was ignored. VGW countered that the state is missing out on over $1 billion in potential state revenues.

Free-Play Services Remain Open for Players

Although the phaseout for Sweeps Coins (SCs) starts December 30th, VGW has assured its players that the platforms remain open. VGW sent an email to its users, and shared the following reminders:

• Players have until January 15th to swap their SCs for prizes. After this date, all SC are lost.

• Free-play using Gold Coins (GCs) remains open to players

VGW’s spokesperson reiterated that the company will remain transparent on its plans and will share any updates and changes as it becomes available.

This isn’t the first time VGW has mentioned California and the sweepstakes casino ban.

VGW lobbied against the bill early this year and worked with tribes like Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation to raise its opposition. Also, the company mobilised over 20,000 player messages to legislators, but all these were ignored when Governor Newsom officially signed the bill last October 11th, 2025.

REFERENCES

• VGW
• AB831