WOW Vegas, a social sweepstakes casino offering free-to-play games, has announced that it will cease operations in Louisiana beginning July 11. The decision follows a firm regulatory move by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board (LGCB), which has recently intensified its efforts against operators functioning without a license in the state.
In a notification sent to users on Monday, WOW Vegas confirmed it would stop accepting Louisiana-based customers, aligning with the LGCB’s growing crackdown on unlicensed sweepstakes gaming platforms.
Statewide Cease-and-Desist Orders Issued
Louisiana’s gaming regulators have ramped up enforcement against unregulated online sweepstakes operators. The LGCB has issued more than 40 cease-and-desist letters to a range of companies in this sector. Among those targeted were prominent platforms such as Bovada, BetOnline, Fliff, Blazesoft, BetWhale, Yellow Social Interactive, VGW Holdings, and Kickr.
This regulatory campaign aims to curtail operations by companies that offer casino-style experiences without formal licensing in Louisiana. So far, regulators have not indicated whether enforcement actions will extend further, but WOW Vegas has chosen to preemptively comply.
Governor Vetoes Sweeps Casino Ban, Citing Existing Authority
The enforcement surge came on the heels of Governor Jeff Landry’s decision to veto Senate Bill 181, a legislative proposal that would have made the operation or promotion of sweepstakes casinos a criminal offense. Landry rejected the bill, stating it was redundant since the LGCB already has the power to regulate and act against such entities under current law.
“Our current Louisiana Gaming Control Board has the regulatory authority, control and jurisdiction over all aspects of gaming activities and operations pursuant to the Louisiana Gaming Control Law,” Landry explained in his official veto message to legislators and the public.
Landry also pointed to concerns over the overly broad language of the bill, suggesting it could create legal ambiguity or unintended consequences.
Industry Advocates Push Back on Proposed Legislation
Prior to the veto, several industry groups had voiced strong opposition to SB 181. The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA), which includes major players such as VGW, sweepstakes operator B-Two Operations, and payment processor Nuvei, issued a statement condemning the measure.
According to the SGLA, “lawmakers fell for a campaign of deliberate misinformation from parties with clear vested interests that was designed to eliminate legitimate competition.” The group maintained that its members operate within the bounds of legality and fairness.
Meanwhile, inquiries made to advocacy groups like the Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) and the SGLA regarding further member departures from Louisiana have so far gone unanswered, leaving the full scope of industry impact uncertain.
Despite the absence of a legislative ban, the LGCB remains proactive. A recent press release from the board emphasized its ongoing efforts to address both offshore and domestic sweepstakes operators through formal cease-and-desist actions.
As Louisiana pushes forward with enforcement over legislation, operators like WOW Vegas are opting to exit the state rather than face regulatory challenges.
Source:
“WOW Vegas heeds Louisiana’s call to leave the state”, linkedin.com, “Howard Glaser”. Jun 24, 2025
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