USA
May brings another wave of movement in the social and sweepstakes casino space. From Montana’s landmark ban to fresh mobile app launches and trade group advocacy, here are the key developments shaping the US landscape this month.
TLDR: a Bite-sized Overview:
- Zula & Fortune Coins go mobile: Blazesoft launched official mobile apps, with Zula on Android and iOS, Fortune Coins on Android only.
- Montana bans sweepstakes casinos: SB 555 passed into law, criminalizing dual-currency gaming. Takes effect October 1.
- NY, LA, CT bills advance: Anti-sweepstakes proposals move forward in New York, Louisiana, and Connecticut.
- Florida bills fail: Multiple anti-sweepstakes bills were withdrawn or defeated before session close.
Ohio considers sweeping changes: SB197 would legalize iGaming, while HB298 aims to ban sweepstakes casinos. - SGLA launches: New trade group led by VGW and former Congressman Jeff Duncan formed to defend social gaming and push for regulation.
Zula and Fortune Coins Launch Native Mobile Apps
Blazesoft, the operator behind popular sweepstakes casinos Zula and Fortune Coins, has officially launched mobile apps for both platforms, a move that significantly upgrades the mobile experience as reflected in our sweepstakes reviews.
- Zula is now available on both Android and iOS.
- Fortune Coins currently has an Android app only, with an iOS version potentially on the way.
Both apps offer smoother gameplay, quicker loading times, and exclusive mobile-only rewards. With Blazesoft’s strong UX reputation, the apps are expected to enhance player engagement across the board.
Montana Becomes First State to Ban Sweepstakes Casinos in 2025
Montana has officially become the first state in 2025 to sign an anti-sweepstakes bill into law. Governor Greg Gianforte signed Senate Bill (SB) 555 on May 12 after the proposal passed both chambers with bipartisan support. The law takes effect on October 1 and is expected to eliminate sweepstakes casino operations in the state by targeting any platform that transmits gambling information, facilitates wagers using any form of currency, and pays out in return.
While sweepstakes casinos are not named directly, the bill’s broad definition of internet gambling and its emphasis on “any form of currency” clearly includes dual-currency sweepstakes models. Operators found violating the new law could face fines of up to $50,000 and up to 10 years in prison. The law also makes it a crime to solicit illegal gambling, affecting affiliates and promoters. Most major sweepstakes brands had already exited Montana, though a few remain and will likely pull out before the October deadline.
New York, Louisiana, and Connecticut Push Forward
As Montana sets a precedent, other states continue debating anti-sweepstakes measures:
- New York: Companion bills S5935 and A6745 have advanced with amendments clarifying that cash-based sweepstakes models are the target. The legislation now allows the New York Gaming Commission to define what qualifies as a dual-currency system. Critics, including the SPGA, argue this creates more confusion for legal game platforms. Both bills aim for passage before the session closes on June 12.
- Louisiana: SB 181 passed the Senate unanimously and is now in the House. It defines sweepstakes casinos in detail and proposes penalties of up to $100,000 and five years of imprisonment. The bill also empowers the Louisiana Gaming Control Board and State Police to shut down illegal sites and apps directly through civil enforcement.
- Connecticut: SB 1235, which passed the Judiciary Committee 37-0, seeks to ban unlicensed companies that enable simulated or real casino gaming. It also proposes new rules for lottery ticket sales and advertising. The session runs through June 4, giving lawmakers a narrow window to push it through both chambers.
Florida Becomes Fourth State Where Anti-Sweepstakes Bills Fail
Florida’s legislative session closed on May 2 without passing any of the multiple anti-sweepstakes bills introduced in 2025, including SB 1404 and House Bill (HB) 1467.
The failed bills aimed to redefine “internet gambling” to include sweepstakes-style games and would have criminalized both players and operators. SB1404, for example, proposed that any online game awarding money based on chance be categorized as illegal, regardless of skill elements. Sports wagering was also targeted due to similar legal ambiguity.
The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) celebrated the legislative failure, calling the bills “reckless” and urging regulators to pursue balanced policy instead of “political theater.”
Florida now joins Arkansas, Maryland, and Mississippi as the fourth state in 2025 where anti-sweepstakes efforts have fallen short.
Ohio Debates Online Casino Legalization and Sweepstakes Ban
Ohio lawmakers are reviewing two bills that could reshape online gambling. SB 197 would legalize online casinos, tax them at 36 percent, and license existing land-based operators, but it leaves sweepstakes casinos untouched. HB 298, however, aims to ban sweepstakes casinos by prohibiting “online sweepstakes games” using dual-currency systems redeemable for cash. First-time violations would be misdemeanors, with felonies for repeat offenses.
Industry voices like MGM Northfield Park criticized sweeps sites for lacking oversight, though reputable operators dispute that claim. With no set deadline and early-stage progress, Ohio joins a growing list of states weighing action on sweepstakes casinos in 2025.
SGLA Launches to Represent Social Gaming Industry Amidst Backlash
The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) has launched as a new trade group to advocate for the social gaming industry and counter negative perceptions of sweepstakes casinos. While avoiding the term “sweepstakes,” the group supports regulation and aims to block legislation that would ban the model.
Founding partner Virtual Gaming Worlds (Chumba, Global Poker) is joined by PLAYSTUDIOS, Yellow Social Interactive (Pulsz), ARB Interactive (Modo.us), B-Two Operations (McLuck, SpinBlitz), and payment firm Nuvei. Former Congressman Jeff Duncan serves as Executive Director.
SGLA outlines three key goals:
- Drive industry integrity by promoting lawful, transparent operations
Protect players through responsible gaming tools and age restrictions
Advocate social gaming excellence to ensure safe, fair digital entertainment
It also emphasizes four guiding principles:
- Games are always free to play: no purchase is required
- Responsible social gameplay with monitoring and support tools
- Robust security, financial crime prevention, and data protection
- Strict age verification to prevent access by minors
With anti-sweepstakes bills progressing in several states and lawsuits targeting top operators, the SGLA hopes its political expertise and unified voice will shape smarter regulation and restore industry credibility.