VGW, the operator behind popular platforms like Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Global Poker, has announced the removal of sweepstakes play in New York State. As part of this transition, the option to play with Sweeps Coins—also known as promotional play—will slowly be phased out by August of this year. However, players will still have access to free play using Gold Coins. The timeline for this change has been communicated to New York players via email.
Starting June 2, players will no longer be able to acquire new Sweeps Coins. By July 2, access to promotional play will cease, and mail-in submissions for Sweeps Coin redemptions will no longer be accepted. Finally, from August 1, online redemptions for Sweeps Coins will be unavailable. Despite these changes, free play with Gold Coins will still be an option for New York residents.
The decision to end sweepstakes play in New York coincides with ongoing legislative discussions across the United States regarding the regulation or prohibition of sweepstakes casinos. New York Senator Joseph Addabbo, chair of the Senate Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee, has been a vocal critic of sweepstakes casinos as he advocates for lawful iGaming in the state. His proposed legislation to ban this format has not progressed in the legislature, and the deadline for bills looms as the session approaches its end. VGW’s withdrawal marks a significant shift as it is the largest name in the sweepstakes market to make such a move.
Legal analysts suggest that their decision may be a response to rising opposition to sweepstakes or regulatory pressures from New York authorities. Operators are keen to demonstrate their willingness to work with lawmakers to avoid outright bans. Currently, many uncertainties linger, but VGW and its affiliates aim to navigate the regulatory landscape, possibly mirroring tactics taken by sports betting companies in the U.S. that saw initial setbacks before achieving stability through aggressive lobbying for regulation.