Massachusetts is considering sweeping changes to its online gambling laws through House Bill 4431, a proposal introduced by Representative David Muradian. The bill would legalize and regulate online casino gaming across the state, while simultaneously outlawing sweepstakes-style games that operate using dual-currency systems.
House Bill 4431 seeks to bring Massachusetts into the iGaming fold by authorizing online versions of table games, slots, poker, peer-to-peer, and skill-based games. The bill proposes oversight by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, with licensing open to the state’s three existing casino operators—PENN Entertainment’s Plainridge Park, MGM Springfield, and Wynn’s Encore Boston Harbor.
Each licensee could offer up to three online platforms or “skins,” which wouldn’t need to match the brand of the land-based casino. That structure could pave the way for big-name operators like FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars to enter the Massachusetts iGaming market through local partnerships.
Licenses would cost $100,000 to apply for and renew every five years. Operators would be taxed at 15% of adjusted gross revenue, compared to the 20% currently applied to online sportsbooks.
Strict Consumer Protections and Responsible Gambling Measures
HB 4431 also includes extensive safeguards to ensure player protection and responsible gambling. The bill would ban the use of credit cards for deposits, limit daily deposit amounts to $20,000, and fund a Player Health Program using gambling tax revenue.
Other rules prohibit advertising that appeals to those under 21, bans marketing on college campuses, and bars the use of terms like “risk-free.” Operators would be required to implement AI-driven systems to monitor account activity for signs of problematic behavior, such as sudden spikes in deposits or time spent gambling.
Additionally, the bill creates a voluntary self-exclusion system and opens the door for Massachusetts to join multi-state compacts such as the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA).
Sweepstakes Games in the Crosshairs
One of the most controversial elements of the bill is its outright ban on online sweepstakes gaming. Defined as games that simulate gambling and use both virtual and real currencies, sweepstakes platforms often skirt regulation by exploiting legal grey areas.
Under the bill, not only would these games be prohibited, but anyone supporting their operation—including payment processors and affiliates—could face criminal penalties. Fines for violations would range from $10,000 to $100,000 per incident, and repeat offenders could be sentenced to up to two years in prison.
Divided Reactions to the Bill
While several lawmakers and the Massachusetts Gaming Commission back the proposal as a way to curb illegal gambling and protect players, critics argue the sweepstakes ban is too far-reaching.
The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) expressed strong opposition. “Massachusetts has long been a hub of innovation, technology, and economic leadership, but this proposal sends the wrong message,” said SGLA Executive Director Jeff Duncan. “A blanket prohibition on social games would strip away lawful entertainment, criminalize legitimate businesses, and undermine an industry that… could add to the state’s annual revenue.”
Massachusetts follows a growing list of states—including New York, New Jersey, Montana, and Connecticut—that have passed or are considering bans on sweepstakes casinos. HB 4431 is currently under review by the Economic Development and Emerging Technologies Committee. If approved, it would take effect on January 1, 2026, pending Governor Maura Healey’s signature.
Source:
“Massachusetts lawmaker pushes to legalise igaming, ban sweepstakes”, linkedin.com, August 20, 2025
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