When it comes to online gambling, the laws of the state in which you reside govern how freely you can wager on casino games. Some states are more lenient in this regard, and others are quite restrictive. Some even ban the activity altogether, as is the case in Utah, where the Mormon population has long held a staunch aversion to betting and gambling activities.
However, the majority of states have legalized online casino games to some degree. Some have launched iGaming platforms that allow players to wager on table games, video poker, slots, and sports wagers in addition to regulated sports betting. Currently, there are seven states that have made it possible for their residents to play at these sites: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Rhode Island.
The first state to make online casino play legal was New Jersey, which opened the door for such wagering in 2013. It did so in conjunction with its land-based casinos, and the Garden State now has an iGaming market that boasts some of the United States’ most well-known brands.
Since then, several other states have opted to legalize the activity, including Michigan in 2021 and Pennsylvania in 2022. In fact, the Keystone State now hosts one of the most robust iGaming markets in the country, with players able to place bets at the likes of BetMGM, Caesars, and FanDuel.
Another state to pass legislation allowing for iGaming is Rhode Island, which launched its own market in 2023. Its iGaming offerings are a bit more limited than those in neighboring states, however, as the Ocean State only allows for players to gamble at two online casinos that are operated by DraftKings and FanDuel.
It’s also worth noting that while some states may prohibit online casino gambling, this does not necessarily mean that residents cannot gamble at offshore operators. In fact, many choose to do just that, and they’ve found plenty of options at reputable sites that are licensed by legitimate US gaming authorities.
Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to decide how they want to spend their time and money on gambling. However, if you’re thinking about playing at an online casino, be sure to check that the site in question has been certified by a reputable body and adheres to responsible gambling terms. Doing so can help ensure that your experience is both safe and enjoyable. And don’t forget to take advantage of those online casino bonuses! They’re pretty hard to resist. Good luck!