Minnesota Moves to Ban Sweepstakes Casinos as Sports Betting Stalls

State lawmakers prioritize restrictions over gaming expansion amid broader shift in policy.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:01pm

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A moody, cinematic painting of a lone slot machine or gaming console sitting in a dimly lit urban setting, with warm sunlight casting dramatic shadows across the scene, conceptually representing the state's move toward gaming restrictions.As Minnesota lawmakers prioritize gaming restrictions over expansion, the state's urban landscape reflects the shifting policy landscape.Minneapolis Today

Minnesota lawmakers are positioned to pass a ban on sweepstakes casino games later this month, reflecting a broader shift toward restricting rather than expanding gaming. At the same time, efforts to legalize sports betting have stalled, with no bill advancing out of committee this legislative session.

Why it matters

The sweepstakes casino ban has faced minimal opposition as it has advanced through the legislative process, signaling bipartisan support for restricting unregulated gaming. Meanwhile, the lack of progress on sports betting legalization suggests lawmakers are prioritizing restrictions, including potential prediction market bans, over expanding regulated gaming options.

The details

The ban on digital dual-currency sweepstakes casino games is expected to pass the state Senate with widespread, bipartisan support. The companion House bill is considered a formality. Minnesota is joining a growing number of states, including Indiana and Maine, that have passed or considered similar sweepstakes casino bans this year.

  • The Senate bill could go to the full floor in the coming days or weeks.
  • The legislative session is scheduled to conclude next month.

The players

Minnesota Lawmakers

State legislators who are advancing the sweepstakes casino ban and resisting efforts to legalize sports betting.

Sweepstakes Operators

Gaming companies that have argued their dual-currency system is legal, but have been largely unsuccessful in opposing the proposed ban.

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What’s next

The Senate bill is expected to pass and move to the House, where it is likely to be approved as well. The legislative session is scheduled to conclude next month.

The takeaway

Minnesota's move to ban sweepstakes casinos while stalling on sports betting legalization reflects a broader shift in state gaming policy toward more restrictive measures, even as neighboring states like Wisconsin move to expand regulated gaming options.