When it comes to online gambling, the United States has never had more choices than right now. With new sites launching all the time and existing ones expanding, there’s no shortage of ways for Americans to place their bets, play casino games or even bet on sports. But with so many options, is it actually legal to gamble online in the US?
In some states, it is. In others, it isn’t. It depends on a number of factors, including local law and state regulations. While some jurisdictions may have stricter rules than others, it’s generally safe to wager at a reputable site, provided you follow the laws in your area. For example, you must be 21 or older to gamble at a casino in the US. In addition, gambling sites are regulated by reputable gambling commissions that ensure the fairness of the games and that players’ personal information is kept secure.
The most important factor to consider when considering a legal US gambling website is whether you are comfortable with it morally. Some people find the idea of playing for money to be unethical and will never gamble, while others view it as a fun and entertaining hobby. Regardless of your own beliefs, most states recognize that gambling is an activity with the potential to lead to problems, which is why they regulate it and support responsible gaming initiatives such as loss limits and self-exclude.
There are a number of reasons why gambling on the internet isn’t yet legal in all 50 states. Some states, like Utah and Hawaii, have religious concerns that affect their regulation of the industry. Then there are states that have restrictive gambling laws that were enacted before the internet, and don’t easily translate into digital betting. The last reason, and perhaps the most frustrating, is that the federal government remains hostile to online gambling and will continue to fight any attempt to legalize it.
Despite this, it’s likely that more states will pass laws to allow some form of online gambling in the near future. Some will legalize only sports betting, while others will offer both sports and casinos. Still, it is important to check with your state’s legislature and law enforcement agencies to get the latest information on the status of legal online gambling in the United States.
Until then, New Yorkers can enjoy their favorite iGaming apps on their mobile devices at one of the numerous brick-and-mortar casinos in the Empire State. The state’s top choices include Rivers Casino & Resort, Tioga Downs & Casino and the Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway.