California · CA
Sweepstakes Casinos in California: Banned
No. California has a law in force that bans sweepstakes-model casinos (effective January 1, 2026).
California Law Summary
AB 831 (Chapter 623, Statutes of 2025) adds Penal Code section 337o, making it unlawful to operate, conduct or offer an online sweepstakes game that uses a dual-currency system redeemable for cash or cash equivalents and simulates casino games, lottery, bingo or sports wagering. It also makes it unlawful for financial institutions, payment processors, geolocation providers, gaming content suppliers, platform providers or media affiliates to knowingly and willfully support the operation, conduct or promotion of such games. Violations are misdemeanors punishable by fines of $1,000 to $25,000 and/or up to one year in county jail; the law was approved October 11, 2025 and took effect January 1, 2026.