Indiana lawmakers have pushed House Bill 1052 forward with an 87–11 vote, positioning the state one step closer to banning online sweepstakes casinos. The bill, which targets online games that mimic traditional gambling while using dual‑currency or multi‑currency systems, now heads to the Senate for committee assignment.
Originally drafted to criminalize sweepstakes operators, HB 1052 was amended during House Public Policy Committee discussions to downgrade violations to civil penalties. Lawmakers added “multi‑currency” language to strengthen the bill’s scope, ensuring platforms using more than one type of virtual currency fall under the ban.
Under HB 1052, sweepstakes operators that run these games in Indiana—or allow Indiana residents to participate—could face a civil fine of $100,000. The legislation defines a sweepstakes game as an online contest accessible via mobile or desktop device that uses currency exchanges for cash prizes or chances to win cash equivalents. It includes games that simulate casino‑style play, lottery draws, video poker, table games, bingo, or sports wagering.
Indiana Gaming Commission officials have noted that current law does not give them the authority to take enforcement action against sweepstakes operators. They indicated that cease‑and‑desist notices would have already been issued if regulators had the legal power to do so. HB 1052 would fill this gap by establishing explicit enforcement mechanisms.
Opposition emerged within the House Public Policy Committee, where five members raised concerns about implementing an outright ban. Rep. Steve Bartels proposed an amendment that would regulate sweepstakes casinos instead, arguing that lawmakers should consider oversight rather than elimination. His amendment did not gain traction, and the ban continued to advance.
Industry groups such as the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) argued that sweepstakes platforms have operated legally in Indiana and proposed a regulatory framework they say could generate an estimated $20 million in revenue. However, their efforts were not enough to slow the bill’s progress, as the House overwhelmingly supported moving HB 1052 forward.
HB 1052 now awaits review in the Indiana Senate, where Sen. Ron Alting has been added as a sponsor. Lawmakers will determine whether the state will finalize a full prohibition on sweepstakes casinos or consider alternative approaches raised during committee debates. The bill remains the most advanced sweepstakes‑related measure in the country for 2026.
