Five Sweepstakes Casino Ban Bills Head to Governors

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By lines

May 11, 2026

This content is for informational purposes only. Terms and eligibility vary by state.

Five US states moved sweepstakes casino ban bills to governors during early May 2026. The legislative wave covers Oklahoma, Iowa, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Minnesota. Each bill targets the dual-currency model that powers Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins play.

What the Five State Bills Do

Oklahoma SB 1589 reached Governor Kevin Stitt’s desk on May 5, 2026. The Oklahoma House passed Oklahoma SB 1589 by a 65-21 vote on May 4. The Oklahoma Senate previously approved Oklahoma SB 1589 unanimously in March 2026. Stitt faced a May 9, 2026 decision deadline.

Iowa SF 2289 cleared both Iowa chambers and now sits with Governor Kim Reynolds. The Iowa Senate concurred with the House version on a 47-0 vote. Iowa SF 2289 expands enforcement powers for the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission would gain authority over unlicensed operators.

Tennessee SB 2136 passed both Tennessee chambers and awaits Governor Bill Lee. Louisiana HB 53 reached Governor Jeff Landry from the Louisiana legislature. Louisiana HB 53 targets sweepstakes operators under the state racketeering statute. Three governors in the southern tier now hold sweepstakes legislation.

Minnesota SF 4474 passed the Minnesota Senate 62-3 on April 30, 2026. The Minnesota House received Minnesota SF 4474 on May 4. The Minnesota legislative session closes May 18, creating a tight runway. Eight US jurisdictions already enacted sweepstakes casino statutory bans through 2025 and early 2026.