MegaBonanza has updated its terms to block Indiana and Maine, pushing its restricted-state list to 18. The sweepstakes casino operator, which says it offers more than 1,000 games from 50 software providers, now says players physically located in those states cannot access its Gold Coin and Sweeps Coin games, its no-purchase welcome package or promotional offers.
The change leaves everyone else unaffected, according to the reporting. MegaBonanza remains available across most of the country, including Texas, Arizona and Florida.
Indiana’s ban on dual-currency sweepstakes casinos took effect on 1 July. Governor Mike Braun signed House Bill 1052, which targets platforms that offer casino-style games through sweepstakes systems and bans online sweepstakes games that mimic casino, lottery or sports betting formats.
The law gives enforcement authority to the Indiana Gaming Commission, including power to issue cease-and-desist orders. It also sets civil penalties of up to $100,000 per violation. The bill passed the Indiana House 87-11 on 2 February and the Senate 37-8 on 18 February.
Maine followed with its own ban after Governor Janet Mills signed Legislative Document 2007, titled An Act Regarding the Prohibition of Online Sweepstakes Games, on 6 April. The measure classifies online sweepstakes platforms as unlawful gambling, explicitly defines dual-currency systems and makes operating or promoting such a game unlawful under the state criminal code.
Maine’s penalties range from $10,000 to $100,000 per instance, with fine proceeds directed to the state’s Gambling Addiction Prevention and Treatment Fund. Any licensed gambling operator found in violation faces mandatory licence revocation, and the law also bars future licensing for people or entities caught under the statute.
Because LD 2007 was not designated emergency legislation, it takes effect about 90 days after the legislature adjourned, placing implementation in mid-July. The reporting says Maine’s Gambling Control Unit told lawmakers that roughly 60 sweepstakes casinos were operating in the state.
The state-by-state retreat has become a recurring cost for operators with wide national footprints. MegaBonanza’s restricted list had been 16 states before this update, and the company says players outside the restricted states can continue using the service as usual.
