California's AB831 Impacts Decision
In California, Assembly Bill 831, introduced by Assemblyman Avelino Valencia, has received a lot of support. It has already passed the Senate Governmental Organization Committee and the Senate Committee on Public Safety unanimously, with support from tribal leaders in the state.
If passed, the bill would impose criminal penalties on sweepstakes operators and more.
Given the level of support this bill has received, it's no surprise that B2 would begin pulling its platforms out.
There have been other laws passed regarding sweepstakes casinos in Montana, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and more.
Louisiana also passed a law. However, it was vetoed because the Governor stated that the Louisiana Gaming Control Board had the authority to pursue such sites.
Other states, such as Arkansas, Maryland, Mississippi, Florida, and Illinois, have attempted to do so, but the bills have not passed.
The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) and the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) have spoken out in favor of sweepstakes casinos, as some, such as Virtual Gaming Worlds, have established platforms that allow players to directly contact legislators. That received at least 20,000 responses in early July, but the bill still passed unanimously in the Senate Committee on Public Safety.
Speaking of Virtual Gaming Worlds, the company has already begun paying sales tax to work with the state. It was also added in other states.
Still, it's not looking good for sweepstakes casino outlets in the state of California.
Other Sites Under B2 Set to Leave?
With the four platforms already closing their virtual doors, now might be the time to use any existing Sweeps Coins you have if you play at McLuck, Jackpota, and/or SportsMillions, as their exit could be imminent.
Other outlets have already begun adjusting their marketing efforts in the state, including MegaBonanza, before this exit.
