Georgia's Class B prize rules in 2026, explained

Since July 1, 2026, Class B machines in Georgia can only be redeemed for replays, Georgia Lottery products and gift cards. Here's what changed and what it means at the counter.

On July 1, 2026, the way Georgia stores redeem Class B amusement machine tickets changed. Store merchandise is no longer an option. Here is what the rule says, what changed, and what it means for the people working the counter.

What the rule says

Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 50-27-71.1) now allows only three forms of redemption for Class B machines:

Replays on the machine.
Georgia Lottery products.
Gift cards, both reloadable and non-reloadable.

No other form of redemption is allowed. Cash has never been an option for Class B machines, and that hasn't changed.

What changed

Before July 1, stores could also hand out store merchandise, and only non-reloadable gift cards were allowed. Now merchandise is out and reloadable gift cards are in.

The change came from House Bill 353, signed in 2024, which gave stores and operators about two years to get ready.

What it means at the counter

Every redemption should be one of the three allowed types. If a cashier still reaches for store merchandise out of habit, that habit needs to go.
Gift card stock matters. Running out of gift cards on a busy Friday means unhappy players and a line at the register. Watch your inventory.
Records matter more than ever. Being able to show which ticket was redeemed for what, when and by whom protects the store in an audit or a dispute.
Signs and training need a refresh. Make sure any signs near the machines and the counter match the current options, and that every cashier knows them.

Lottery products as prizes

Stores that already sell Georgia Lottery products can use them for redemption. If your store is a lottery retailer, ask the Georgia Lottery how lottery products used for redemption should be handled and reported at your location.

How EasyPlay handles it

EasyPlay's counter app only offers the redemption types Georgia allows. Every redemption is tied to the ticket, the machine, the cashier and the shift, and it shows up in the shift report and the store's history.

Not legal advice. This article is general information as of November 2026, and rules can change. For guidance on your situation, check with the Georgia Lottery Corporation and your attorney.

Sources: HB 353 as signed (2024); Georgia State University Law Review, summary of HB 353.