Florida lawmakers introduced House Bill 189, which proposes making it a third-degree felony to wager on a sporting event while knowing its result has been rigged. The proposed substitute also covers fantasy sports and other gambling rules; the bill must pass further legislative steps before it can become law.
Operators and bettors could face new criminal penalties if lawmakers approve the proposed restrictions.
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Florida lawmakers are due to meet from 13 January to 13 March, with tougher penalties for illegal gambling expected to be a focus, according to the report. HB 591 would revise state gambling laws and increase penalties; it follows the introduction of HB 189, which targets non-tribal online and land-based gambling, with an exception for daily fantasy sports.
Florida lawmakers filed House Bill 591 on 2 December, proposing changes to gambling laws across the state. The bill would create offences for internet gambling and slot-machine trafficking, raise penalties for several activities and revise rules for the Florida Gaming Control Commission.
Florida Representative Walter Barnaby filed HB953 on 24 February, and Senator Corey Simon introduced companion bill S1404 on 26 February. The proposals would extend the state’s gambling ban to internet gambling and internet sports wagering, potentially covering sweepstakes casinos and betting outside the Seminole Tribe compact; both bills remain proposals.
Maryland lawmakers introduced HB 1226, which would require hosting providers to remove sites offering online wagering to state residents and allow enforcement against companies that knowingly support illegal gambling. The bill also covers online contests or promotions that simulate casino games or sports betting without a licence; its status is a proposal.
Maryland lawmakers introduced matching House Bill 295 and Senate Bill 112 on 14 January 2026 to prohibit operating or promoting interactive sweepstakes platforms in the state. The proposals set fines of $10,000 to $100,000 and possible prison terms of up to three years; they also add disclosure requirements for licence applicants and holders. Industry representatives have warned that broad wording could affect promotional campaigns by non-gambling businesses.