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 online casinos, so sweepstakes casinos became the next best thing for players. You could play casino-style games using virtual currencies rather than with real money.
However, some recent changes are seeing sweepstakes casinos banned soon. Governor Newsom signed bill AB 831 into law on October 11, 2025, and it takes effect on January 1, 2026. Once it does, sweepstakes casinos will be outlawed in the Sunshine State. Several operators, like Stake.us, have already closed their sites for CA players ahead of the deadline. Here's what the law actually says and what options you 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:
- Bill AB 831 was first introduced in February, 2025.
- The bill passed both the Senate and the Assembly with unanimous votes.
- Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 832 into law on October 11, 2025.
- The ban takes effect January 1, 2026.
- All dual-currency sweepstakes sites which can be accessed on a computer, mobile phone or similar device and which facilitate gameplay using two types of virtual currencies with the chance for players to become eligible for prizes including cash or cash equivalents, will be outlawed.
- This includes sites offering slots, video poker, table games, bingo, certain types of lotteries, and sports wagering.
- Many brands, such as Stake.us and McLuck have already shut down operations in California ahead of the ban taking effect.
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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