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Bill

SB 90

ELECTION OFFENSES: Prohibits betting or wagering on elections. (8/1/25)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rick Edmonds and 6 co-sponsors

Louisiana criminalizes betting on election outcomes effective August 1, 2025, to protect electoral integrity by removing financial incentives for interference.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 4.
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Bill Summary · SB 90

Legislative bill overview

SB 90 prohibits betting or wagering on election outcomes in Louisiana, effective August 1, 2025. The bill has already passed both chambers and been signed by the Governor, making it law. It creates criminal penalties for individuals who place bets on election results.

Why is this important

Election betting could create financial incentives for election manipulation, fraud, or interference. By criminalizing such wagers, the state aims to protect electoral integrity and reduce potential conflicts of interest. This follows similar prohibitions in other states and aligns with federal restrictions on election wagering.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Critics may argue the ban restricts speech and financial transactions between consenting adults, though courts have generally upheld election wagering prohibitions as serving a compelling state interest
  • Enforcement challenges: Defining what constitutes an "election wager" versus prediction markets, political betting pools, or fantasy politics platforms may create ambiguity and enforcement difficulties
  • Scope of definition: The bill's exact penalties and what types of bets are covered (local, state, federal elections, primary elections, ballot measures) affect real-world application but aren't detailed in the summary provided

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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