The Louisiana Gaming Control Board (LGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to 40 unlicensed online betting platforms and sweepstakes casinos, citing violations of state gaming regulations. This enforcement action is part of an ongoing effort to combat the rise of sweepstakes gaming, which has faced increased scrutiny across the U.S.
Regulatory Pressure Mounts on Unlicensed Gaming Operators
As the regulatory authority overseeing gambling in Louisiana, the LGCB plays a critical role in preventing unauthorized operators from targeting local consumers. Sweepstakes gaming, a gray-market sector, operates using a dual-currency system to sidestep classification as traditional gambling. While sweepstakes platforms claim to offer free-play options, industry regulators argue that their models constitute illegal gambling and should be subject to the same oversight as licensed casinos.
State authorities, along with tribal and commercial gaming stakeholders, have moved to limit the influence of sweepstakes operators. While lawmakers have introduced bills to criminalize sweepstakes gaming, the legislative process has yielded mixed results.
40 Operators Ordered to Exit Louisiana
In coordination with the Attorney General’s Office and the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division, the LGCB has intensified its efforts against unlicensed gaming operators.
Recently, the LGCB issued an order against Bovada, one of the largest offshore gambling platforms, requiring it to cease operations in Louisiana. Now, the board has expanded its crackdown, sending cease-and-desist notices to 40 additional sweepstakes and online wagering platforms found to be circumventing state gaming laws.
Louisiana’s Commitment to Regulatory Integrity
LGCB Chair Christopher B. Herbert emphasized the board’s dedication to maintaining fair gaming practices and protecting consumers from illicit operations.
“These actions send a clear message: Louisiana will not tolerate illegal operators who put our citizens at risk and undermine the integrity of our gaming industry. We will continue to use every enforcement tool available to uphold the law.”
Governor Landry Rejects Anti-Sweepstakes Bill
Despite legislative efforts to ban sweepstakes gaming, Governor Jeff Landry recently vetoed a proposed measure that sought to criminalize such activities. Landry justified his decision by citing ongoing regulatory efforts already addressing the issue, arguing that additional legal measures would create unnecessary complexities.
Louisiana remains a key battleground in the fight against unlicensed gaming, with regulators continuing to monitor and enforce compliance to safeguard the state’s gaming industry.
