When it comes to gambling, many people are hesitant to try online casinos or sportsbooks for fear of breaking the law. However, these games aren’t illegal and can be a fun way to win money. However, it is important to remember that the laws surrounding online casino gaming vary by state. Therefore, it is important to research these laws before playing. To get started, visit our Online Gambling Legality by State page and familiarize yourself with the laws in your area.
The legality of online gambling depends on state regulations, as well as the type of gaming being played. For example, some states prohibit online gambling altogether while others only regulate certain forms. While federal laws have kept some online casinos from being able to operate in the US, new state regulations have chipped away at these bans. This has created a system whereby each state has unique laws in place regarding online gambling.
For example, a player in Pennsylvania can legally gamble at an online casino that holds a license from the state’s Gaming Control Board, while a player in New Jersey can only use sites licensed by their state’s gambling commission. In order to gain a state-licensed online casino, a site must be approved by the state’s Gaming Control Board and meet all of the regulatory requirements set forth by that board. In addition, a licensed site must offer a wide range of gaming options, including slots, table games, and poker.
Aside from these differences, most states have similar legalities when it comes to online gambling. The most important requirement is that a person must be within state lines to play at a licensed website. Additionally, a person must be at least 21 years old to gamble at a licensed online casino.
The most recent state to legalize iGaming is Connecticut, which launched its regulated market in late 2021. Initially, only two operators are allowed to offer online casino games in CT: DraftKings and FanDuel, which have partnerships with the state’s two tribal casinos. Despite these limitations, Connecticut is one of the most popular iGaming destinations in the country.
Following the lead of its Northeastern neighbors, Rhode Island became the sixth U.S. state to launch a legal iGaming market when it did so on June 20, 2023. Players in the Ocean State can now access a variety of online casino games, including blackjack, roulette, and video poker, from reputable operators like BetMGM and Caesars. Other state-licensed sites include DraftKings and FanDuel in West Virginia, which offer a variety of popular casino games to residents of the Mountain State.
