Is it legal to gamble online in the U.S.? That all depends on your jurisdiction. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of sports betting at the state level in 2018.
Online gambling then sparked the greatest economic boom in its history.
Before the court’s decision, sports betting in the U.S. centered around one state. By 2022, more than half the states legalized sports betting or online gambling.
Of those abstaining states, a few may legalize online gambling or sports betting in 2022.
The most significant factor in the surge of online gambling came from COVID-19. While most businesses closed, the popularity of online casinos soared.
Interest in online gambling continues to experience massive growth all around the world. With $61.5 billion in 2021, the global online gambling market might be worth $114.4 billion by 2028.
Many factors contribute to the popularity of online gambling. For example, some online casinos have the fastest payouts in the industry.
Certain states maintain a legal gray area on sports betting and online wagers.
Will online gambling ever be legal in the U.S.? Let’s take a closer look.
Alaska
Alaska remains one of nine U.S. states in opposition to the legalization of sports betting. Voters focus on the oil industry there, more so than gambling activities. For that reason, the state is also one of nine without an income tax.
Alaskans need to access reputable offshore gambling sites to place their wagers online. Popular options include BetOnline and BetUS.
Hawaii
Hawaii is among the most stringent anti-gambling jurisdictions. All forms of gambling remain prohibited, including fantasy sports.
The creation of an Internet Lottery and Gaming Corp failed to pass the legislature. State legislators continue to debate many bills on gambling regulation. Offshore options might be a bit risky.
California
Like Hawaii, the California legislature proposes ballot measures that wind up faltering. The state could offer one of the largest potential betting markets in the country.
Indian tribes in the state, like others across the U.S., maintain a monopoly on casino gambling. A ballot proposition might be available to voters in November among battling competitors. Another one may occur in 2024.
Texas
Online gambling in Texas remains illegal. The state maintains a tight grip on all forms of gambling. Only daily fantasy sports are legal.
While online gambling may be punishable in Hawaii by a fine or even jail time, Texas state law is more lenient. According to the Texas State Law Library, gamblers might find a legal loophole for bets.
Utah
Utah is another of the more anti-gambling states. Any forms of gambling or online casinos remain banned. Religious opposition also keeps online gambling relegated to a legal gray area.
Yet the legal enforcement of the state’s gambling prohibition may be a low priority. Utah residents might find plenty of gambling options through offshore casinos and sportsbooks. Fear of prosecution is non-existent.
Florida
When it comes to online gambling in the U.S., chalk Florida up as another state in legal limbo. The state passed a bill in 2021 that allowed sports betting in tandem with the Seminole Tribe.
In response to the rollout of online sports betting, the tribe then backtracked. Appeals and lawsuits keep the legal online gambling industry at a standstill. Offshore betting remains intact.
Is Online Gambling Safe?
One of the major roadblocks to legalizing online gambling in the U.S. derives from safety concerns. Any online casino or sportsbook should foster a good reputation among its players.
Offshore sites get licensed outside the U.S. Always do your research to make sure the site you choose is legit.
To ensure your best gaming experience, make sure to gamble responsibly.
U.S. states may base their online gambling environment on legal brick-and-mortar operations. Legislators must keep up with an industry that continues to grow at an overwhelming pace.
Players and companies around the world get the best of both worlds. There’s hardly been a better time for gambling online.