The Indiana Senate has successfully passed House Bill 1052, a landmark piece of legislation that effectively bans online sweepstakes casinos across the state.
The bill, which now returns to the House for concurrence, proposes massive civil penalties of up to $100,000 for operators who continue to offer unauthorized games of chance via the internet.
Defining Illegal “Sweepstakes Games”
The Senate-engrossed version of House Bill 1052 creates a stringent statutory definition for “sweepstakes games.” The law targets any internet-based contest that utilizes a dual-currency or multi-currency system.
This system typically allows players to exchange virtual currency for cash prizes or equivalents. Specifically, the bill targets platforms that simulate casino-style gaming, including slots, video poker, and bingo.
Heavy Financial Penalties for Operators
A key component of the bill is the authorization granted to the Indiana Gaming Commission to enforce these rules. Operators, including those based out-of-state but interacting with Hoosiers, could face $100,000 penalties for knowingly conducting these games. While the bill allows for peer-to-peer skill-based poker, it explicitly excludes the unregulated sweepstakes model.
Legislative Timeline and Final Steps
Public Policy Chairman Sen. Ron Alting noted that while there was brief discussion about regulating and taxing the space, leadership in both chambers preferred an outright prohibition.
If the House concurs with the Senate’s amendments before the session adjourns on February 27, Indiana will become the first state in 2026 to formally prohibit these platforms through explicit statute. The law is slated to take effect on July 1, 2026.
