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The sweepstakes casino ban legislation in Tennessee currently sits on the governor's desk
It could become law even if he does not sign it and the legislature could override any veto with a two-thirds vote
One of the largest sweepstakes casino platforms, ClubWPT Gold, has left the Tennessee market following a new state law that would ban such platforms.
The majority of sweepstakes casinos had already left the state after Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti sent cease-and-desist letters to nearly 40 sweepstakes casino operators late last year. ClubWPT Gold was among the last remaining exit the market on Wednesday.
Legislation in Tennessee — specifically SB 2136 in the Senate and its House companion HB 1885 — targets so-called “dual-currency” sweepstakes casinos that utilize Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins redeemable for prizes or cash while offering casino-style slots and table games outside of a traditional gaming license framework.
The legislation is currently awaiting action from Gov. Bill Lee. Unless Lee chooses to veto the measure, it can still become law without his signature. Reports indicate the governor has had the legislation on his desk for more than a week.
Even if Lee were to issue a veto, the Tennessee legislature could still override it with a two-thirds vote.
The state of Tennessee does not license casinos and is the only U.S. state without any land-based casino operators that regulates online sports betting. There are no retail sportsbooks in the Volunteer State.
Other states like Oklahoma and Louisiana are on the cusp of passing similar laws that ban sweepstakes casinos.
ClubWPT Gold is owned by the World Poker Tour and is still available in most U.S. states. It has now begun shifting to a poker training business model.
Gambling911.com will continue to monitor the situation.
- Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com
