Missouri Contest and Sweepstakes Laws
Contests and sweepstakes are legal in Missouri if they are structured to eliminate either chance or consideration. Clear rules and transparency in promotions are essential.
In Missouri, contests and sweepstakes are lawful when designed to avoid the legal definition of a lottery. A lottery in Missouri is defined by the presence of prize, chance, and consideration. To avoid operating an illegal lottery, sweepstakes typically remove consideration by offering a Free Alternative Method of Entry (AMOE), while contests eliminate chance by basing outcomes on skill.
Missouri's consumer protection laws require that all sweepstakes and contests clearly disclose eligibility requirements, methods of entry, prize details, and odds of winning. Promotions must not require payment or a purchase for participation. Deceptive promotional practices, such as falsely suggesting that someone has won a prize without legitimate entry, are prohibited under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act.
Charitable gaming, including raffles, is separately regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission. Businesses running private promotions in Missouri must ensure all marketing practices are transparent, and that free participation is genuinely available to all entrants. Sources:
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Montana Contest and Sweepstakes Laws
Contests and sweepstakes are legal in Montana if they are structured to eliminate either chance or consideration. Full disclosure and compliance with gambling and consumer protection laws are required.