With state-level lawmakers largely leading the way to approve new forms of online gambling, there has been some skepticism regarding whether or not federal laws would ever allow real money gaming. While some federal statutes like the 1961 Interstate Wire Act may limit interstate wagering, a 2011 reinterpretation has opened the door for states to approve of iGaming, and the result has been a steady increase in the number of legal online casino options available.
While it is possible to play at an offshore casino that doesn’t have any legal license, the vast majority of regulated casinos are completely safe and secure. These licensed operators are required to adhere to strict regulations that ensure the integrity of their games, protect player information and data, and offer secure deposit and withdrawal methods. When a site is licensed, it is important to keep in mind that the operator will be subject to regular audits to maintain compliance.
Aside from offshore options, players can also find a wide variety of online casino games at the regulated sites that operate within their jurisdictions. This means that you can find everything from traditional casino games like roulette, blackjack and baccarat to more modern offerings like video poker and slot machines. The regulated casinos can also be trusted to provide fair and accurate odds, which is something that offshore sites are often criticized for.
Currently, online casino gaming is legal in most US states, including the major markets of Nevada and New Jersey. Pennsylvania joined the fold in October 2017, but the state’s iGaming market was slow to get underway. However, it’s a good thing that PA was patient, as more than 10 safe authorized iGaming options are now live in the state, with popular brick-and-mortar casinos like Parx and Rivers offering an online extension.
In the northeast, Connecticut is the latest state to join the iGaming ranks, with its legal online casino platform going live in late 2021. The Connecticut market features just two casino options at the moment, with DraftKings and FanDuel partnering with the state’s two tribes to launch the products. However, the state’s legislature is working to expand the market in the near future.
The same can be said for West Virginia, which approved iGaming in March 2019 and launched its first casinos in July 2020. Governor Jim Justice owns a retail casino in the Mountain State and helped pave the way for the state to approve online gambling. There are currently five iGaming options to choose from in WV.
Despite the success of the sports betting industry, North Dakota remains one of the few states that don’t allow any type of online casino gambling. Residents can enjoy legal in-person gaming at tribal casinos, but that’s about it.