Legal status of online gambling in the US differs widely by state, with some states permitting full regulation while most limiting or prohibiting it entirely. This concise guide examines this current landscape while providing an overview of state laws to make determining your options in each US jurisdiction easier.
Alabama maintains a conservative approach to gambling, with only pari-mutuel horse racing betting at licensed tracks authorized as casino-style games. Other forms of gambling such as charitable bingo and lottery games as well as online casinos and poker remain off limits – while daily fantasy sports (DFS) sites accept players from Alabama.
New Jersey is among the most liberal states when it comes to gambling, offering its residents access to 22 licensed online casinos and its state lottery, along with nine brick-and-mortar sportsbooks for placing sports wagers. Although New Jersey law doesn’t explicitly mention regulated online gambling, many major operators accept players from New Jersey – tacit approval being given through these operators accepting players from New Jersey.
Oregon state law makes operating an online casino illegal, yet there are no penalties associated with playing on unregulated sites. Oregon’s unregulated poker rooms, some operated by criminal gangs linked to murder cases, have also not been subject to regulation; as a result, Oregon officials remain reluctant to regulate these operations.
Nevada stands apart, as online gambling is fully regulated and has developed into a multi-billion dollar industry. Nevada is widely recognized as a safe and reputable place to gamble online with high payouts and low house edges; additionally it boasts the lowest number of gambling-related crimes committed and acts as an inspiration to other states when it comes to regulation.
Numerous states are working towards developing or expanding their legal frameworks for online gambling, though this process will likely take time. California plans on passing a ballot initiative that would legalize retail sports betting at tribal casinos or through major platforms like DraftKings while Nebraska will launch their first sportsbook by September of 2021.
As states revisit antiquated gambling bans, they must strike a balance between economic interests and public safety concerns as they examine state gambling laws that may need updating and staying informed on state updates page. We provide this list as a resource.