More About HB298
In the bill, "online sweepstakes game" is labeled as an illegal activity.
The ban would include games that “utilizes a dual-currency system of payment that allows a player to exchange the currency for a cash prize, cash award, or cash equivalent, or for a chance to win a cash prize, cash award, or cash equivalent.”
Of course, this would include sweepstakes casinos, which use Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins (sometimes under different names but with the same effects).
Gold Coins are used for fun, while Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for cash prizes.
Ohio Governor Against Gambling
The bill that would ban sweepstakes casinos, HB298, hasn't seen any action since it was introduced on May 21.
Considering the bill would have until Dec. 31 to make any headway, while nothing has happened, Huffman's comments, and Gov. Mike DeWine's previous comments on real-money online gambling, it doesn't seem like this bill has any shot of doing anything.
DeWine has said he's "not for it," referring to real-money online gambling.
“Basically to put a casino in everybody’s hands, 24-7, I think is probably not a great idea and I think it will cause more pain and suffering in regards to addiction as far as gaming addiction. So I’m just not for it," he said.
He was also asked about virtual lottery terminals in restaurants, and he said, “I think we probably have enough gambling in the state already.”
So, while the bill would ban sweepstakes casinos, the trade-off of legalizing online gambling doesn't seem plausible.
Other Sweepstakes News
In Massachusetts, there's a bill similar to Ohio's: it would ban sweepstakes casinos but legalize real-money online gambling.
The bill, House Bill 4431, has passages which read “It shall be unlawful for any person or entity to operate, conduct or promote online sweepstakes games within the commonwealth" and also “It shall be unlawful for any person or entity to take any action to support or assist in the operation, conduct or promotion of online sweepstakes games within the commonwealth.”
In California, AB 831 has passed and been signed into law, and that'll take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
As for Ohio, a bill would be crushing to the sweepstakes casino industry, as it is one of the most populous states without legislation against them or that has not sent out cease-and-desist notices en masse.
We'll see if there's any last-minute noise on these bills, but again, don't expect it.
