Online Gambling Legal States 2025

Is Online Gambling Legal in the United States?

Technically, online gambling is still illegal in the United States. Because of the Federal Wire Act, the vast majority of states did not have any online gambling until 2011. When New York and Illinois began selling lottery tickets online they wanted to make sure they were not violating any federal laws, so they asked the justice department for some guidance.

In 2011, the Justice Department issued a memorandum stating that it had reinterpreted the Wire Act. At that time, they stated that the Wire Act would only apply to sports betting and not other types of gambling. As a result, their interpretation opened the door to the vast majority of types of online gambling, which is why it is now legal in some states.

What States Have Online Gambling That Is Legal?

Now, there are several states that have opened the door, realizing that there is an opportunity to take advantage of online gambling. A lot of states want to have online gambling because it makes it easier to regulate, reducing the chances of someone getting hurt while playing. In addition, having online gambling available opens the door to additional tax revenue, which a lot of states desperately require.

Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia all allow online casinos. Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania along with Nevada additionally allow for online poker games. Twenty-four states and the District of Columbia give residents the option of online sports betting as well.

Which States Are Getting Ready To Pass Online Gambling?

Even though sports betting has been legalized very quickly in a lot of places across the country, the legalization of online casino games and online poker has been a bit slower. Online poker and online casino games became legal in Nevada in 2013. New Jersey and Delaware quickly followed suit. Since then, only a handful of other states have joined, but there are some states that have online gambling legislation on the docket.

California, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, and New York appear to be considering legalizing online casino gambling as well. Even though it is something that has yet to be signed into law, there are a lot of people who are anticipating that these states will pass online gambling legislation next.

Is Online Gambling Safe?

There are a lot of people who are interested in online gambling, and some are thinking about trying it for the first time ever. It is important to note that online gambling is safe if you use a safe website. It is important to make sure that the website you use has strong online security practices before you decide to give it a try. You should take a look at the website closely and read a few reviews from people who have used it. That way, you minimize the chances of your information being stolen. Finally, if you feel like you have a problem controlling your gambling, you may want to reach out to a professional who can help you.