Maryland cracks down on illegal sweepstakes-based online casinos with new bill
Maryland lawmakers are moving to ban social casinos that use sweepstakes-based prizes. A new bill, SB 860, has gained support after authorities targeted 11 operators for running illegal gaming platforms in the United States. The crackdown aims to close loopholes in the state’s gambling laws.
The push to regulate unlicensed gaming began when the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency issued cease-and-desist letters to 11 sweepstakes-based casinos and sportsbooks. Officials declared these platforms illegal under USA state law. Among the operators, Stake.us and Rebet reportedly ignored the orders and continued running their sites.
The bill’s progress signals a potential shift in Maryland’s online games landscape. Authorities have already taken action against non-compliant operators, including Stake.us and Rebet. Should SB 860 become law, it would mark a clearer legal boundary for social casinos in the state.
