Tennessee lawmakers have introduced a new bill that would make it easier for the state to crack down on online sweepstakes casinos. The proposal, HB 1885, was filed on January 21, 2026 by Rep. Scott Cepicky.
It would label certain online sweepstakes-style casino games as unlawful and treat them as a violation of the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act, which can allow civil penalties and court orders to stop the activity. The bill also expands investigation powers for the Tennessee Attorney General and the state’s sports wagering council.
What HB 1885 Would Do
HB 1885 takes a broad approach. It says gambling, the operation or possession of gambling devices, and the operation or promotion of online sweepstakes games and other online or app-based gambling are unlawful and against public welfare.
Instead of relying only on criminal gambling charges, the bill would put sweepstakes casinos into a consumer protection category. That matters because the state could pursue civil enforcement through the Attorney General under the consumer protection law.
In simple terms: if the state believes a site is breaking the rules, it could seek court action to make the site stop, and it could pursue financial penalties under the consumer protection system.
The bill also targets the full “ecosystem,” not just the website operator. It includes people or companies that support or facilitate sweepstakes gambling in Tennessee. That could include vendors, intermediaries, and other partners that help the games run.
How the Bill Defines an Online Sweepstakes Game
HB 1885 includes one of Tennessee’s clearest definitions of what it is trying to stop. It defines an online sweepstakes game as gambling that is available on the internet and playable on a phone or computer.
The key part is the virtual-currency system. The bill describes a setup where players can use coins or tokens that are purchased, received through a bonus, or provided free alongside another purchase. It then focuses on the “cash-out” feature: the currency can be exchanged for a prize, cash, a cash equivalent, or the chance to win those things.
It also points to what the games look like. The bill says sweepstakes games simulate gambling, including casino-style gaming such as slots, video poker, table games, lottery games, bingo, and even unlicensed sports wagering.
At the same time, the bill says it does not restrict legal activities already allowed in Tennessee, including the Tennessee Sports Gaming Act, the Fantasy Sports Act, nonprofit gaming laws, and the state education lottery.
More Power for Investigations and Enforcement
HB 1885 is not only about defining sweepstakes games. It also gives the Attorney General stronger tools to investigate possible violations. The bill adds language that allows the Attorney General to request information and documents, take testimony under oath, and seek court orders to compel compliance if needed.
It also expands the authority of the sports wagering council. Under the bill, the council may investigate not only licensees, but “other persons” who may be tied to violations of the sports gaming law. The bill also says the Attorney General may investigate certain sports gaming violations using consumer protection procedures and bring cases in Williamson County or another legal venue.
Finally, the bill states it would take effect upon becoming law. That means if it passes, it would not wait for a future start date.