Gambling is legal on a federal level in the United States, but gambling laws are left to individual state governments to determine how it’s regulated within their borders. State laws differ regarding the types of gambling permitted, where it can be done, and the minimum age required to gamble. It’s also up to the states to decide whether or not to allow online gambling. Some have opted to legalize online casinos, while others have regulated online sports betting or lottery games. In addition to determining which gambling activities can be undertaken, the states are responsible for regulating and licensing those who wish to offer gambling services.
It wasn’t until 2021 that the first legal online casinos launched in the US. Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia all began offering regulated casino gaming. Michigan, in particular, has taken a big step forward in the industry by offering sports betting and online poker. Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the Lawful Internet Gaming Act in 2019 to position Michigan for future growth in the iGaming sphere.
Pennsylvania and New Jersey are two of the most reputable and well-known states when it comes to regulated online gambling, but they’re not alone. There are now several other regulated gambling sites, including Delaware and Nevada, that offer a wide variety of casino games, sports wagering, and more. In addition to these regulated sites, there are now many offshore gambling operators that accept players from the US.
While some people may be concerned about the risks associated with gambling online, it’s important to remember that there is no risk of prosecution on a federal level in the United States. Federal criminal laws only prohibit interstate and international gambling, and it’s very unlikely that anyone will ever be prosecuted for gambling in an online casino.
The legality of online gambling in the US varies by state, so it’s important to research your local gambling laws before you begin playing. You can use our Online Gambling Legality by State guide to learn more about the current regulations in place. Once you’ve found a site that meets your needs, you can start placing bets and winning real money!
Although Texas is one of the largest states, it doesn’t allow its residents to play at real money online casinos. The Lone Star State has a powerful anti-gambling coalition, and it’s likely that iGaming will remain prohibited in the state for the foreseeable future. Residents of Texas can still play at social casino websites, which allow players to enjoy a limited version of the same gambling experience. Most of these sites are free to join and offer an easy registration process that requires only Google, email, or Facebook details. Once you’ve registered, you can choose a username, select a password, and agree to the terms of service before you can start gambling. These sites are a great way to practice your skills and get a feel for the games before you decide to invest any money.