Adjustments Made to Sweepstakes Games Strategy in New York Following Discussions with Authorities by SPGA
Fresh Take:
The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) has shifted its approach towards sweepstakes games in New York, following talks with state officials. Instead of a uniform strategy, each member will explore "the most suitable pathway" based on personal legal counsel and strategic goals.
This move emphasizes the sector's focus on teamwork and seeking regulatory certainty. The SPGA remains steadfast in advocating for open dialogues between digital entertainment firms and regulators. As shown in the fantasy sports negotiations, constructive dialogue can lead to smart policymaking around sweepstakes promotions.
Communication and Collaboration Key
An SPGA spokesperson emphasized the significance of dialogue between digital entertainment companies and lawmakers. "Innovation in digital entertainment necessitates productive communication with legislators and policymakers," the spokesperson stated. They also mentioned that the repercussions of social sweepstakes regulations go beyond just Starbucks and Marriott promotions, extending to popular mobile games such as Candy Crush and Monopoly Go.
New York officials are said to understand the importance of making the right decisions concerning social sweepstakes, as any choices could have broader implications for the gaming industry. The SPGA confirmed that New York laws, such as Senate Bill 5935, support their stance that sweepstakes games are legal in the state.
Backing Claims with Data
The SPGA strengthened their position by citing data from a study by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming (EKG) in Michigan. According to the report, social sweepstakes sites don't compete with or harm traditional real-money online casinos in the state's gaming market. The SPGA believes this shows that a specific group of players is attracted to sweepstakes games due to unique incentives.
The SPGA remains committed to collaboration and will continue working closely with authorities while safeguarding the rights of sweepstakes game players nationwide.
Disputes over Senate Bill 5935
While the SPGA backs Senate Bill 5935, they've raised concerns about its recent amendments. The bill aims to control online sweepstakes games using dual-currency systems, which can be exchanged for cash or prize equivalents. However, the SPGA worries that the legislation could impact common sweepstakes and promotional practices and potentially harm businesses.
The SPGA sees the provision allowing the New York State Gaming Commission to define "dual-currency systems" as problematic and has described it as a "political patch." Their primary concern is that the bill could affect more than just sweepstakes games and may negatively impact broader marketing practices used by major brands.
Bottom Line
With New York state laws, such as Senate Bill 5935, supporting the legality of sweepstakes games, the SPGA continues to advocate for clear, informed dialogues between the digital entertainment industry and legislators to shape smart policy around sweepstakes promotions. The SPGA refers to this exchange as crucial for parties involved in the gaming industry, and they remain dedicated to maintaining an open dialogue with regulators and protecting the rights of sweepstakes game players nationwide.
- The SPGA acknowledges that innovation in digital entertainment, such as popular mobile games like Candy Crush and Monopoly Go, requires constructive communication with lawmakers not only about Starbucks and Marriott promotions, but also sweepstakes games.
- In response to concerns about Senate Bill 5935's amendments, the SPGA continues to lobby for open dialogues with regulators, emphasizing the importance of such exchanges for both the gaming industry and players of sweepstakes games nationwide.
