Florida’s political back-and-forth over sweepstakes and social casinos just won’t settle. Earlier in 2025, lawmakers failed to pass a proposed ban, but now the issue is back on the table, and even though nothing’s been passed yet, it’s got everyone in the industry watching closely.
A Second Attempt at Shutting Down Sweepstakes Casinos
The latest move comes from Rep. Berny Jacques, who reintroduced a bill aimed at shutting down pretty much every online gaming product that isn’t offered by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The proposed legislation, HB 591, classifies the promotion or operation of sweepstakes-style casinos as a third-degree felony. It has a pretty broad definition of online gaming, saying it’s any internet game that awards something of value by chance.
That kind of wording covers the entire social and sweepstakes model. Slots, table games, and video poker would be treated the same way as traditional online casinos. And since the legislation says anything outside the Seminole compact as illegal, it would effectively shut down sweepstakes casinos in the state.
Operators Say They’re Already Following the Rules
Operators and the industry as a whole have been quick to respond. The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance argues that not all online gaming is illegal gambling, and sweepstakes casinos actually follow Florida’s consumer protection and financial transactions laws. Their dual-currency model, ability to play for free, and age restrictions set them apart from offshore gambling operators. One currency is for entertainment only, and the other that’s earned through purchase or participation, can be redeemed for cash and prizes.
The SGLA says they would much rather the state continue with clear regulations instead of bans.
A Bill with More Consequences than Expected
What makes this situation even more interesting is how HB 591 affects areas beyond sweepstakes. The bill could prevent any future conversations about legal online casinos in Florida, unless the Seminole Tribe ran them.
It also imposes restrictions on gambling advertising and forbids local governments from regulating gambling. It even imposes heavy penalties for any involvement in illegal slot machines, including first-degree felonies and fines up to $500,000.
US social casino operators will need to carefully consider how they prepare for situations like this. The big companies already have compliance teams and legal plans in place. But for new entrants, it’s a different world.
What This Means for Newcomers
For companies considering entering the space, the uncertainty makes it hard to plan for the long term. If HB 591 eventually passes, it could shut the door on new entrants. Even just the attempt is making operators hesitant. No one wants to set up servers, launch marketing, and build a player base only to discover the state changed its mind again.
Fortunately, technology gives options. If the worst happens and the ban becomes reality, platforms could rely on geo-blocking to prevent Florida residents from accessing social gaming sites. Many already do this in states with existing restrictions, allowing companies to keep operating nationally while remaining compliant within individual jurisdictions.
Where Things Go from Here
Nothing is settled yet. Florida has already shown that passing this kind of bill isn’t easy, and the renewed attempt doesn’t guarantee success. But it does highlight how quickly the regulatory environment can shift.
If the state eventually tightens its laws, Florida adults aged 21+ could be pushed toward less-regulated spaces or tribal gaming venues, and the industry will have to adapt. Established operators might be able to adjust quickly, but new players will need to think twice before diving in. For newcomers, the message is fairly simple: pay attention and be ready to respond if the state finally decides what to do about social gaming.
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