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A Mississippi senator has taken a strong stance against online sweepstakes gaming, intending to make it illegal and punish offenders severely. Recently, Senator Joey Fillingane presented SB 2510, which aims to amend an existing law to permit online versions of brick-and-mortar sweepstakes cafes that were previously prohibited.
The bill proposes severe consequences: violators could face a $100,000 fine and/or up to a 10-year prison sentence, “in the discretion of the court.” Additionally, individuals caught in violation would forfeit their “rights and privileges used in connection with violations” of the amended law. The state’s Senate Judiciary Division B Committee is currently reviewing the bill. If it passes, the new regulations would take effect on July 1.
SB 2510 aims to stop online sweepstakes operators from offering prizes for games of chance. The bill states, “any online, interactive, or computerized version of any game as defined in Section 75-76-5(k) or any other game of chance or digital simulation thereof, including, but not limited to, online race books, online sports pools, and online sweepstakes casino-style games, is hereby declared to be a gambling device, and the offering for play or operating an online or interactive platform that offers for play such games” is unlawful.
Interestingly, the proposal leaves the current legal gaming landscape in Mississippi untouched. Promotions, contests, and prize sweepstakes marketing remain exempt as long as they comply with existing state laws.
This move represents a significant effort to curb digital gambling and underscores Mississippi’s commitment to regulating gaming activities within its borders. The outcome of SB 2510 could set a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues.