RELATING TO GAMBLING.

HB 2402 creates a new misdemeanor offense for promoting gambling in the third degree. This bill directly affects individuals or businesses that actively encourage or facilitate gambling activities, such as operating unlicensed betting services. The key provision establishes a specific criminal penalty for these promotion activities, making them punishable as a misdemeanor under state law. The bill is currently in its early stages, having been introduced on January 27, 2026, and referred to committee on February 2, 2026.