California is moving aggressively to outlaw sweepstakes-style casino and sportsbook platforms with Assembly Bill 831, a sweeping piece of legislation that could reshape the online gaming landscape—not just in the Golden State, but nationwide.
Originally a technical measure aimed at tribal gaming compacts, AB 831 has been fully rewritten into a direct assault on casino-themed sweepstakes platforms, many of which operate in legal gray areas across the U.S. Now moving through the state Senate with strong momentum, the bill has been amended, expanded, and redefined with language that goes further than any previous state-level crackdown.
This article breaks down everything you need to know: what the bill says, how it’s changed, who it affects, who’s behind it—and what happens next.
What Is AB 831?
AB 831 began its life in early 2025 as a relatively obscure bill concerning updates to gaming compacts between California and its tribal operators. But in June, the bill was entirely rewritten to target sweepstakes casino platforms—those that use dual virtual currencies (typically Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins) to simulate real-money gambling without falling under traditional gambling laws.
The revised bill explicitly bans “casino-style online sweepstakes” that operate using these dual-currency systems. It amends both California’s Business and Professions Code and the Penal Code, with the goal of classifying unlicensed sweepstakes gambling as an enforceable criminal offense.
If passed, AB 831 would effectively shut down dozens of platforms currently accessible to California residents.
Key Elements of the Bill
Explicit Ban on Sweepstakes Casino Mechanics
The bill defines and prohibits platforms that simulate gambling through online sweepstakes formats, particularly those using virtual coins that can be redeemed for cash or prizes. This targets the exact model used by popular sites like Chumba, Pulsz, McLuck, and others.
Targeting the Full Ecosystem
AB 831 doesn’t stop with just the platforms. It also targets software providers, payment processors, advertisers, and affiliates who knowingly assist or promote these sweepstakes operations. The goal is to cut off the industry from all angles of support.
Enforcement Language Clarified
Responding to civil liberties concerns, lawmakers removed vague language that could have criminalized players themselves. The most recent draft requires actors to “knowingly” support or enable these platforms—meaning enforcement will focus on businesses, not individual users.
Who’s Behind the Bill?
AB 831 is sponsored by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, but the bill has strong backing from the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) and its member tribes. Many tribal leaders view sweepstakes casinos as direct competitors to regulated tribal gaming, operating without taxes, licenses, or regulatory oversight.
The political motivation is clear: safeguard tribal sovereignty, protect existing revenue streams, and clamp down on what’s viewed as a growing wave of illegal digital gambling.
What’s the Legislative Status?
As of July 2025:
- AB 831 passed the Senate Governmental Organization Committee (15–0)
- It passed the Senate Public Safety Committee (6–0)
- It is currently awaiting a hearing in the Senate Appropriations Committee, scheduled for August 18, 2025
If approved there, the bill will move to the full Senate for a vote. Passage in the Senate would send it to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for signature.
Growing Opposition to the Bill
Not everyone is on board with AB 831’s broad language. A powerful and diverse coalition has formed to oppose it, including:
- ACLU of California
- Sweepstakes Promotion Gaming Association (SPGA)
- Advertising trade groups
- Consumer brands like Google and General Mills
Their primary concern: the bill could unintentionally criminalize non-casino promotional sweepstakes, such as loyalty rewards, giveaways, brand contests, and digital promotions—tools used by nearly every major consumer-facing business.
While lawmakers have tried to address these concerns by narrowing the bill’s language, opponents argue that the text still leaves too much room for interpretation.
Why This Matters Nationwide
AB 831 is being watched closely by lawmakers and regulators across the U.S. While states like Connecticut, Louisiana, Montana, and New York have already taken enforcement action, California would be the largest and most influential state to formally legislate a ban on sweepstakes casino platforms.
If successful, this bill could trigger a domino effect, encouraging other states to adopt similar legislative frameworks rather than relying solely on enforcement or vague regulatory threats.
It would also set a new precedent for how dual-currency platforms—those blurring the line between gaming and gambling—are defined under law.
What Happens If AB 831 Passes?
If signed into law, the following would occur:
- Platforms like McLuck, Pulsz, Chumba, WOW Vegas, and LuckyLand would be forced to block California players
- Payment processors, affiliate sites, and app platforms could face penalties for facilitating sweepstakes casino access
- Tribal and state-licensed gambling operations would see reduced competition from unlicensed digital platforms
- National brands offering any kind of prize-based promotion would likely review compliance and update their sweepstakes terms
Final Thoughts
California’s AB 831 represents a turning point in the sweepstakes casino industry. No longer flying under the radar, these platforms are now squarely in the crosshairs of lawmakers and regulators.
Whether or not the bill passes this session, the message is clear: the era of legal ambiguity is ending, and sweepstakes casinos must either adapt or prepare to exit some of the country’s largest markets.
If you’re a player, affiliate, or operator, this is a moment to pay close attention. The rules of the game are changing—and California is setting the pace.