Highlights
- Stake.us and many other sweepstakes casinos will be banned in California from January 1, 2026
- Bill AB 831 has been signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom
- Social casinos using only one virtual currency remain legal
California doesn't allow traditional real-money online casinos, so sweepstakes casinos became a popular alternative for players. These platforms allowed residents to enjoy casino-style games using virtual currencies, with opportunities to redeem certain coins for real prizes.
However, that changed when California's sweepstakes casino ban took effect on January 1, 2026. Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 831 into law on October 11, 2025, effectively outlawing dual-currency sweepstakes casinos across the Golden State. Major operators, including Stake.us, have since exited the market or discontinued their Sweeps Coin offerings. Here's what the law says and what options California players still have.
What’s Behind the California Sweepstakes Casino Ban?
For many years sweepstakes casinos like Stake.us have been a viable alternative for players in California, where traditional online casinos remain restricted. Though this is soon changing, as bill AB 831 has been signed into law by Governor Newsom on October 11, 2025, effectively banning all dual virtual currency sweepstakes platforms. Let’s take a look at what this means in a little more detail:
- AB 831 was originally introduced on February 19, 2025, before being amended on June 23 to target online sweepstakes casinos.
- The bill passed the Senate with a 36-0 vote and received final Assembly approval by a 79-0 vote.
- Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 831 into law on October 11, 2025.
- The ban officially took effect on January 1, 2026.
- The law prohibits online sweepstakes games that use dual-currency systems to simulate gambling and offer cash or cash-equivalent prizes.
- This covers casino-style games such as slots, video poker, blackjack, roulette, bingo, certain lottery games, and sports wagering.
- Operators and third parties that knowingly and willfully support prohibited sweepstakes games can face criminal penalties, including fines ranging from $1,000 to $25,000.
- Several major operators have already responded to the ban. Stake.us completely exited California on December 30, 2025, while McLuck discontinued Sweeps Coin gameplay but retained its Gold Coin games.
Are There Any Alternatives for CA Players? There Sure Are!
Although sweepstakes casinos will be banned in CA, not all hope is lost. Social casinos that employ only a single type of virtual currency (usually Gold Coins) remain legal. These platforms offer no promotional play and no possibility for prize redemptions, which is why they can continue operating in California.
Hard Rock Jackpot Planet
is a social casino app that you can join as a CA resident without having to make a purchase. The site runs on Gold Coins only and you’ll be given 100,000 GC as you sign up for a new account. From there you can play over 250 casino-style games, including some in-house created Hard Rock exclusive. You’ll also find a range of ongoing promotions like the Daily Bonus Wheel, daily missions, and times bonus cases to keep your GC balance topped up.
1000% Extra on First Purchase
Final Thoughts: Try Hard Rock Jackpot Planet As an Excellent Stake.us Alternative in California
As of January 1, 2026 operators like Stake.us will no longer be available to players in California. Bill AB 831 outlaws all dual-currency sweepstakes casinos in the state and many sites have already ceased operations. However, you’re not all out of options. As a CA player you can still play at single-currency social casinos such as Hard Rock Jackpot Planet. Use any of our links on this page to get started on the site and claim a generous sign-up offer with 100,000 Gold Coins.
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