California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill (AB) 831 into law, prohibiting free-to-play online social games that include sweepstakes promotions.
Sweepstakes advocacy group the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance has criticized the measure, saying it was “flawed and rushed,” arguing it removes a safe entertainment option for millions of Californians.
The bill, introduced in June through what the coalition describes as a “gut-and-amend” process, passed without direct consultation with the industry.
Several tribes, including the Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, the Sherwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians, the Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria, and the Big Lagoon Rancheria, are opposed to AB831, arguing that it restricts the economic opportunities of smaller tribes and infringes on their sovereignty.
