Social Gaming Leadership Alliance disputes Louisiana AG opinion on sweepstakes games

The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) has pushed back against a recent legal opinion by the Louisiana Attorney General that characterizes online social games using sweepstakes models as unlawful under state law.

In a statement, the social gaming industry group said it respectfully disagrees with the interpretation and emphasized that the sweepstakes-based models used by its member platforms are both legal and widely used across industries for promotional purposes.

“We are disappointed by the Attorney General's opinion and fundamentally disagree with the notion that these platforms are operating outside the bounds of the law,” said Jeff Duncan, Executive Director of the SGLA and a former U.S. Congressman. “Our partners offer free-to-play entertainment based on long-standing promotional sweepstakes models used legally by consumer brands across industries. This is not gambling - it’s marketing.”

The SGLA noted that its member platforms do not require payment to participate and offer alternative, free methods of entry. It also highlighted a suite of consumer protection measures, including strict age verification, self-exclusion options, anti-money laundering protocols, and high-level data security systems.

“Millions of Americans have safely enjoyed these games for more than a decade,” Duncan added. “We urge Louisiana officials to engage in a constructive, fact-based dialogue about how best to provide clear, modern regulations that protect consumers, encourage innovation, and reflect the reality of today's digital entertainment landscape.”

The group said it remains open to working with Louisiana regulators, lawmakers, and other stakeholders to develop a regulatory approach that balances consumer safety with industry growth and potential new state revenue.

The Attorney General's opinion is non-binding but could influence enforcement decisions or future legislation.