New Jersey Contest and Sweepstakes Laws

Contests and sweepstakes are legal in New Jersey if structured to eliminate either chance or consideration. Sponsors must comply with strict consumer protection and disclosure requirements.

In New Jersey, contests and sweepstakes are lawful if they are structured to avoid being classified as illegal lotteries. A lottery in New Jersey involves prize, chance, and consideration. Sweepstakes must eliminate consideration by providing a Free Alternative Method of Entry (AMOE), while contests must eliminate chance by relying on skill-based participation.

New Jersey has strict consumer protection laws requiring full disclosure of all material terms. Sweepstakes sponsors must clearly outline eligibility requirements, entry methods, prize descriptions, and odds of winning. No purchase or payment may be required to enter or win. Deceptive promotional practices, such as falsely indicating that a participant has won, are prohibited under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act.

Charitable gaming activities, such as raffles and bingo, are separately regulated through the New Jersey Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission. Businesses operating private sweepstakes and contests targeting New Jersey residents must ensure compliance with gambling regulations, consumer protection laws, and full transparency in promotional materials. Sources:

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New Mexico Contest and Sweepstakes Laws

Contests and sweepstakes are legal in New Mexico if they are structured to eliminate either chance or consideration. Transparency and compliance with state gambling and consumer protection laws are required.