Connecticut Bill Banning Sweeps And Lottery Couriers Advances
A new legislative proposal in Connecticut aims to reshape the state’s gambling landscape by banning sweepstakes casinos and lottery couriers. Senate Bill 1235, which received the green light from the Legislative Commissioner’s Office earlier this week after its introduction in February, is now poised for full Senate consideration.
Legislative Progress and Approval
The momentum for Senate Bill 1235 has been notable. Initially receiving unanimous support—22-0—during the General Law Committee vote in March, the bill further secured a 37-0 vote in favor from the Judiciary Committee last month. It is currently slated for discussion on the Senate calendar, reflecting a strong bipartisan consensus on addressing the challenges within the gambling sector.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Banning Lottery Courier Services
The bill states a definitive ban on operating lottery courier services within Connecticut, stipulating, “No person shall operate a ticket courier service in this state.” This move aligns with actions taken by several other states, including Texas, which has faced significant scrutiny following a lottery rigging scandal. The fallout from this scandal has prompted calls in Texas for the complete abolition of lotteries. California and Florida have also prohibited lottery couriers, and a similar ban is advancing in Indiana.
Prohibiting Sweepstakes Casinos
The latest legislative effort also specifically targets the rise of sweepstakes casinos, which have proliferated in recent years. Following Connecticut’s legalization of online casinos in 2021, residents can legally partake in gambling via platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings, which have partnered with the state’s land-based casinos. In the first quarter of 2025, these online sportsbooks generated an impressive $375 million in casino revenue and contributed $60 million in tax revenue for the state last year.
Sweepstakes casinos often employ a dual-currency system that allows players to engage in casino games with virtual currencies. The newly proposed bill seeks to outlaw this practice entirely, categorizing the operation of illegal gambling entities as a Class D felony, which could result in up to five years of imprisonment and a $5,000 fine.
Expansion of Legal Betting Options
In a bid to enhance Connecticut’s gambling framework, the bill also proposes the expansion of betting options. While sports betting was legalized in Connecticut in 2021, certain college sports betting remains restricted. The current proposal aims to allow wagering on games featuring Connecticut teams; however, bets on matches involving the state’s colleges will still be prohibited.
Additionally, the bill seeks formal recognition of betting on sports like boxing and MMA, establishing clear legislative frameworks that govern these activities. Following established protocols is paramount, as failure to adhere to them would lead to a prohibition on potential bets.
Multi-State Gaming Compacts
One of the most intriguing aspects of the legislation is its potential to facilitate Connecticut’s entry into multi-state gaming compacts. If passed, the bill would empower the state’s Governor to authorize inter-state agreements for peer-to-peer online gaming activities. This could encompass a variety of games, including slots, blackjack, roulette, poker, video poker, and live dealer games. With states like Pennsylvania having recently joined in, this initiative could significantly elevate the stakes for players, enabling them to contest for larger prize pools in online poker tournaments.
Conclusion and Legislative Timeline
As the legislative session in Connecticut approaches its conclusion on June 4th, the clock is ticking for Senate Bill 1235 to receive final approval from both chambers. Should it pass, the implications for the gambling industry in Connecticut could be profound, marking a decisive shift toward greater regulation and modernization.
About the Author
Adam Roarty is a seasoned writer with extensive expertise in the gambling sector. With five years of experience as a content writer and editor for reputable platforms such as Oddschecker, CoinTelegraph, and Gambling Industry News, Adam brings valuable insights and a nuanced understanding of sports betting and online gambling trends.
