(AsiaGameHub) – Oklahoma lawmakers have forwarded a bill to ban sweepstakes casinos to Governor Kevin Stitt following strong support in both legislative chambers. The proposal will become law if the governor signs it or allows it to take effect without his action.
Good to Know
- Oklahoma SB 1589 targets online sweepstakes casinos and casino-style dual currency platforms.
- The House approved the bill 65 to 21 after the Senate passed it in March with no opposition votes.
- If Gov. Kevin Stitt does not act, the ban will take effect on Nov. 1.
SB 1589 Focuses on Dual Currency Casino Games
Oklahoma has moved closer to a statewide ban on online sweepstakes casinos, with SB 1589 now awaiting action from Governor Kevin Stitt, who can sign it into law, veto it, or allow it to become law by taking no action within the next week.
The legislation revises the state’s criminal gambling statute to explicitly include online casino-style games and dual currency gambling platforms. Many sweepstakes casinos sell one virtual coin while offering another that is used in slot- or lottery-style games. In many cases, players can redeem this second currency for cash or prizes.
SB 1589 directly addresses this business model by classifying any virtual currency exchangeable for cash, prizes, or a chance to win them as having regulated value. This language would render the sweepstakes casino structure illegal in Oklahoma.
Lawmakers showed broad backing for the measure. The Oklahoma House voted 65 to 21 in favor, while the Senate passed it in March without a single dissenting vote.
The bill also extends liability beyond platform operators. Companies and other entities that support sweepstakes casino platforms could face legal consequences under the proposal. Violations would be classified as Class C2 felonies, punishable by fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 and up to 30 days in jail.
Tribal gaming operations are exempted from the ban under the bill—a significant provision in Oklahoma, where tribal gaming holds a major position in the regulated casino industry.
A veto may not be the end of the effort. With the legislative session set to conclude on May 29, lawmakers would still have time to attempt an override. If enacted, Oklahoma would join a growing number of states increasing restrictions on sweepstakes casinos ahead of the end of 2026.
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