California sweepstakes casinos are one step away from being made illegal. The bill banning sweepstakes casinos in CA (AB 831) is now in the hands of Gov. Gavin Newsom for final approval.
He has 30 days, or until October 12, to either sign it into law or veto the bill. If that deadline passes without any action, that legislation will go into law.
Can Californians Play Sweepstakes Casinos?
Currently, sweepstakes casinos are legal in California, but only because they leverage a legal model that allows free play and prohibits mandatory purchase—called AMOE (Alternative Means of Entry). Through this mechanism, users can play for prizes without making a purchase, distinguishing these sites from real-money casinos, which remain illegal online. As a result, more than 60 such platforms now welcome California players, who must be at least 18 years old.
The Best Sweepstakes Casino: RealPrize
As legal sweepstakes casinos face possible elimination, players seek trustworthy, rewarding, and fair platforms. RealPrize stands out as a top choice for Californians online casino players during this shrinking window.
What Makes RealPrize the Leader
- Dual-currency Gameplay: RealPrize uses Gold Coins for fun and Sweeps Coins for entries that can be redeemed for prizes, following the law's requirements on no-purchase-necessary entries.
- Broad Game Selection: RealPrize offers slots, table games like blackjack and roulette, and instant-win games, ensuring entertainment variety for all types of players.
- No Purchase Required: Frequent free coin giveaways ensure every player has a no-purchase path to winning.
- Fast, Transparent Prize Redemptions: Winnings with Sweeps Coins can be redeemed quickly, and RealPrize is known for taking winner security seriously.
- User-friendly Experience: The interface is easy to navigate, making registration, play, and redemption simple for newcomers and veterans alike.
- Strong Customer Support: Prompt, helpful assistance ensures issues are addressed without delay.
RealPrize At a Glance
| 🔥 Feature | 🎁 RealPrize Offer |
| No-Purchase Method | Yes, through regular AMOE and promotions |
| Game Variety | Slots, blackjack, roulette, instant win |
| Prize Redemptions | Fast, secure, transparent |
| Support | Excellent, quick response |
| Platform Security | High, with strong data protection |
Responsible Play Reminders
- RealPrize Casino does not require or favor purchases, with all players equally able to win through free methods.
- Prizes can only be claimed by residents of eligible states meeting all sweepstakes laws and policies.
- Each sweepstakes offer is backed by clear, accessible rules—always review them before engaging.
The Ongoing Ban Effort: Will the Window Close?
California lawmakers, prompted by tribal gaming interests, have advanced Assembly Bill 831 (AB 831), which targets sweepstakes casinos using dual-currency models—the very system that made RealPrize and its competitors so popular. The law would not target players, but will make it illegal for operators, support services, and promoters to offer or advertise sweepstakes casino games online in California.
Why Is the Ban Happening?
- Tribal casinos argue online sweepstakes models threaten their federally protected exclusivity.
- Legislators say that sweepstakes casinos are using legal gray areas to operate digital gambling in open defiance of state law's intent.
- The measure aims to close loopholes, protecting regulated gaming and consumer safety.
Legislative Progress and Key Dates
- Introduction and Initial Passage (April 2025): Assemblyman Avelino Valencia introduced AB 831 to ban dual-currency sweepstakes casinos that simulate real-money gambling, and it passed the California Assembly in May 2025 amid support from major tribal gaming groups like the California Nations Indian Gaming Association.
- Committee Advancement and Opposition (June–August 2025): The bill advanced through Senate committees in July and August despite pushback from sweepstakes operators like VGW and the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance, who argued for regulation over prohibition to generate tax revenue.
- Senate Approval (September 8, 2025): The California Senate unanimously passed AB 831 with a 36-0 vote, amending it to exempt legitimate promotional sweepstakes while criminalizing dual-currency models with fines up to $25,000 and up to one year in jail.
- Final Assembly Concurrence (September 13, 2025): The Assembly unanimously concurred with the Senate's amendments, sending the bill to Governor Gavin Newsom's desk for signature, veto, or inaction.
- Current Status (September 16, 2025): As of today, AB 831 awaits Governor Newsom's decision within 30 days; if signed or not acted upon, it will become law effective January 1, 2026, potentially making California the sixth state to ban such platforms this year.
What Should Players Do?
- Californians can still play sweepstakes casinos for now, but are urged to check current laws before making any new purchases or prize claims.
- Once the ban takes effect, it will be illegal for companies to offer such games to state residents, though players themselves are not subject to prosecution.
- After regulation, options will shift to social casinos (with no prizes), the California State Lottery, or in-person tribal casinos.
Bottom Line
Californians can play sweepstakes casinos like RealPrize for a limited time, and those looking for a trusted, rewarding platform should act soon. RealPrize combines legal compliance, great game variety, and secure prize redemption—making it the clear standout for the remaining days of sweepstakes casino legality.
