New York legal term
Sweepstakes in New York Criminal Law
Current through 2026 New York legislative session
In New York criminal law, “Sweepstakes” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the New York criminal code.
What does “Sweepstakes” mean in New York criminal law?
"Sweepstakes" means any game, advertising scheme or plan, or other promotion, which, with or without payment of any consideration, a person may enter to win or become eligible to receive any prize, the determination of which is based upon chance. 2. (N.Y. Penal Law § 156.40)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.