- ClubWPT Gold eliminates free-play games and pivots to a poker training model.
- California's AB 831 would criminalize dual-currency sweepstakes sites with heavy penalties.
- Multiple states passing anti-sweepstakes legislation forcing industry-wide changes.
SACRAMENTO – On Wednesday, ClubWPT Gold announced a significant change to its platform: it would be replacing Gold Coin free-to-play games with poker teaching tools. In a dramatic shift from the conventional dual-currency format, the sweepstakes gaming website now only offers Sweeps Coin games with real cash value awards.
Instead of using Gold Coins for free play, customers now pay for hand analysis services under the new system. Users can earn similar chips for use in ring games and tournaments with real cash rewards for every dollar spent on analysis, with each analyzed hand costing $0.50.
The timing coincides with evolving legislation for California online poker, specifically targeting sweepstakes gaming operations. Undergoing multiple amendments since being completely overhauled in late spring, California bill AB-831 was enrolled and presented to the Governor.
As it stands, it would:
- Prohibit dual-currency sweepstakes gaming sites utilizing simulated gambling including slot machines, video poker, table games, lottery games, bingo, and sports wagering.
- Give misdemeanor penalties for violations involving fines of $1,000 to $25,000 and a maximum one year of jail time.
Target those who "knowingly and intentionally" engage in prohibited activities.
Major gambling tribes, such as the California Nations Indian Gambling Association and the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, have firmly supported the proposal. However, smaller organizations have voiced their objections, such as Publishers Clearing House, the California Cities Gaming Authority, and the Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, which is a tribal partner of VGW.
Due to more stringent social gaming regulations, ClubWPT Gold limits access to states with poker including Washington, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey, and Idaho. While New York is awaiting Governor Kathy Hochul's signature on a measure, Nevada and Connecticut have already enacted anti-sweepstakes legislation that will go into effect on Wednesday.