Oklahoma Lawmakers Override Veto to Ban Online Sweepstakes Gambling

Oklahoma legislators have successfully overridden Governor Kevin Stitt’s veto of Senate Bill 1589, enacting a significant expansion of the state’s criminal gambling restrictions. The new law specifically targets online casino-style games and sweepstakes operations, which utilize dual-currency systems to simulate gambling. By updating Section 941 of the criminal code, the legislation defines prohibited activities to include internet-based gaming accessed via computers, mobile phones, or tablets. Crucially, it extends criminal liability beyond platform operators to include geolocation providers, gaming suppliers, promoters, and media affiliates who support these services. Violations are classified as Class C2 felonies, carrying fines between $500 and $2,000 plus potential imprisonment. The bill passed with strong bipartisan support, with the Senate voting 34-10 and the House 68-19 to override the governor's May 7 veto. While the law tightens regulations on commercial online gambling, it preserves exemptions for charitable gaming and tribal land operations under federal law. This move aligns Oklahoma with other states like Montana and Maine that are cracking down on online sweepstakes casinos. The law is scheduled to take effect on November 1, 2026.