legal online sports betting states

Introduction In recent years, the landscape of online sports betting has undergone significant changes in the United States. Following a landmark Supreme Court decision in 2018, individual states have been empowered to regulate and legalize online sports betting within their jurisdictions. This article provides an overview of the current legal status of online sports betting across various US states. Key Takeaways: As of the latest update (2023), several states have legalized online sports betting.

Sports betting has seen a significant transformation in the United States over the past few years, with more states legalizing and regulating the industry. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the states where sports betting is legal, the types of bets allowed, and the platforms available for wagering.

The landscape of sports betting in the U.S. has evolved dramatically since the Supreme Court’s decision in Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association in 2018, which struck down the federal ban on sports betting. Since then, numerous states have legalized sports betting, either through legislation or voter referendums.

As of the latest updates, the following states have legalized sports betting:

  • Nevada: The pioneer state for sports betting, Nevada has long been the hub for legal sports wagering.
  • New Jersey: One of the first states to legalize sports betting post-SCOTUS decision, New Jersey offers both online and retail betting.
  • Delaware: Legalized full-scale sports betting in 2018, with both online and retail options available.
  • Mississippi: Allows sports betting at licensed casinos, but online betting is restricted to within casino premises.
  • West Virginia: Offers both retail and online sports betting through licensed operators.
  • Pennsylvania: Legalized sports betting in 2019, with a variety of online and retail options.
  • Rhode Island: Sports betting is available at two casinos, with online betting also permitted.
  • Indiana: Legalized sports betting in 2019, with both retail and online options.
  • Iowa: Allows sports betting at licensed casinos and online through approved operators.
  • New Hampshire: Offers online sports betting through a single operator.
  • Oregon: Legalized sports betting through the state lottery, with online and retail options.
  • Montana: Sports betting is available through the state lottery, with both retail and online options.
  • Colorado: Legalized sports betting in 2020, with both retail and online platforms.
  • Illinois: Allows sports betting at licensed casinos and online through approved operators.
  • Tennessee: Unique in that it only allows online sports betting, with no retail options.
  • Virginia: Legalized sports betting in 2020, with both retail and online options.
  • Michigan: Offers sports betting at licensed casinos and online through approved operators.
  • Washington, D.C.: Legalized sports betting through the D.C. Lottery, with both retail and online options.
  • Arkansas: Allows sports betting at licensed casinos.
  • North Carolina: Legalized sports betting at two tribal casinos.
  • Washington: Legalized sports betting at tribal casinos.
  • South Dakota: Legalized sports betting at Deadwood casinos.
  • Wyoming: Legalized online sports betting in 2021.

Types of Bets Allowed

Each state has its own regulations regarding the types of bets that can be placed. Common types of bets include:

  • Moneyline Bets: Betting on which team will win the game.
  • Point Spread Bets: Betting on a team to win by a certain margin.
  • Over/Under Bets: Betting on the total number of points scored in a game.
  • Parlays: Combining multiple bets into one, with higher payouts but higher risk.
  • Prop Bets: Betting on specific events within a game, such as the first player to score.
  • Futures Bets: Betting on the outcome of a future event, such as the Super Bowl winner.

Platforms for Sports Betting

The platforms available for sports betting vary by state but generally include:

  • Retail Sportsbooks: Physical locations within casinos or dedicated sportsbook venues.
  • Online Sportsbooks: Websites and mobile apps operated by licensed sports betting companies.
  • State Lotteries: Some states, like Oregon and Montana, offer sports betting through their state lottery systems.

Key Considerations for Bettors

When engaging in sports betting, it’s important to consider the following:

  • Licensing and Regulation: Ensure that the platform you are using is licensed and regulated by the state.
  • Responsible Gambling: Many states offer resources and tools for responsible gambling, including self-exclusion programs and deposit limits.
  • Tax Implications: Winnings from sports betting may be subject to state and federal taxes.

Future of Sports Betting in the U.S.

The legalization of sports betting continues to expand, with several states considering legislation to legalize the industry. As more states join the ranks, the landscape of sports betting in the U.S. will continue to evolve, offering more options and opportunities for bettors.

This guide provides a snapshot of the current state of legal sports betting in the U.S. As the industry continues to grow, it’s essential for bettors to stay informed about the latest developments and regulations in their state.

mgm online sports betting

Sports betting has seen a significant shift in legality across the United States over the past few years. With the Supreme Court’s decision in 2018 to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), states were granted the authority to legalize and regulate sports betting within their borders. As a result, the landscape of sports betting in the U.S. has become quite diverse. Here’s a breakdown of where sports betting is currently legal:

Fully Legalized States

These states have fully legalized both online and retail sports betting:

  • Nevada: Known as the gambling capital of the U.S., Nevada has long been a hub for sports betting. It was one of the few states where sports betting was legal before the PASPA repeal.
  • New Jersey: One of the pioneers post-PASPA, New Jersey offers both online and retail sports betting, with numerous options for bettors.
  • Delaware: Delaware was another early adopter, offering full-scale sports betting shortly after the PASPA repeal.
  • Mississippi: While Mississippi offers retail sports betting at its casinos, online betting is restricted to on-premises wagering.
  • West Virginia: Both online and retail sports betting are legal in West Virginia, with several operators providing services.
  • Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania has a robust sports betting market, with both online and retail options available.
  • Rhode Island: Rhode Island offers both online and retail sports betting, with the state controlling the operations.
  • New Mexico: Although not explicitly legalized by the state legislature, some tribal casinos offer sports betting under compacts with the state.
  • New York: New York has legalized retail sports betting at its casinos, with plans to expand to online betting in the future.
  • Arkansas: Arkansas allows retail sports betting at its casinos, with no current plans for online betting.
  • Colorado: Colorado legalized both online and retail sports betting in 2020, with a competitive market emerging.
  • Illinois: Illinois offers both online and retail sports betting, with a mix of state-run and private operators.
  • Indiana: Indiana has a thriving sports betting market, with both online and retail options available.
  • Iowa: Iowa allows both online and retail sports betting, with a growing number of operators.
  • Michigan: Michigan legalized both online and retail sports betting in 2020, with a diverse market.
  • Montana: Montana offers sports betting through a state-run app and retail locations.
  • Tennessee: Tennessee is unique in that it only allows online sports betting, with no retail options.
  • Virginia: Virginia legalized online sports betting in 2021, with plans for retail options in the future.
  • Washington, D.C.: Washington, D.C. offers sports betting through a state-run app and retail locations.
  • Oregon: Oregon offers sports betting through a state-run app and retail locations.
  • North Carolina: North Carolina allows retail sports betting at two tribal casinos, with no current plans for online betting.
  • Washington: Washington allows retail sports betting at tribal casinos, with no current plans for online betting.
  • Wyoming: Wyoming legalized online sports betting in 2021, with no retail options.

States with Pending Legislation

Several states are in the process of considering or implementing sports betting legislation:

  • California: A hotly debated topic, California has seen multiple proposals for sports betting, but no legislation has been passed yet.
  • Florida: Florida has legalized sports betting through a tribal compact, but the implementation is currently tied up in legal challenges.
  • Georgia: Georgia has seen several proposals for sports betting, but no legislation has been passed yet.
  • Hawaii: Hawaii has considered sports betting legislation, but no progress has been made.
  • Idaho: Idaho has not shown significant interest in legalizing sports betting.
  • Kentucky: Kentucky has seen several proposals for sports betting, but no legislation has been passed yet.
  • Louisiana: Louisiana has legalized sports betting, with some parishes opting out. Implementation is ongoing.
  • Maine: Maine has considered sports betting legislation, but no progress has been made.
  • Maryland: Maryland has legalized sports betting, with implementation ongoing.
  • Massachusetts: Massachusetts has considered sports betting legislation, but no progress has been made.
  • Minnesota: Minnesota has considered sports betting legislation, but no progress has been made.
  • Missouri: Missouri has considered sports betting legislation, but no progress has been made.
  • Nebraska: Nebraska has legalized sports betting, with implementation ongoing.
  • New Hampshire: New Hampshire offers online sports betting through a state-run platform.
  • New York: New York has legalized retail sports betting, with plans to expand to online betting.
  • Oklahoma: Oklahoma has considered sports betting legislation, but no progress has been made.
  • South Carolina: South Carolina has not shown significant interest in legalizing sports betting.
  • South Dakota: South Dakota has legalized sports betting, with implementation ongoing.
  • Texas: Texas has considered sports betting legislation, but no progress has been made.
  • Utah: Utah has not shown significant interest in legalizing sports betting.
  • Vermont: Vermont has considered sports betting legislation, but no progress has been made.
  • Wisconsin: Wisconsin has not shown significant interest in legalizing sports betting.

States with No Current Plans

These states have shown no significant interest in legalizing sports betting:

  • Alabama
  • Alaska
  • Arizona (Note: Arizona has legalized sports betting, but it is included in the fully legalized states list)
  • Connecticut (Note: Connecticut has legalized sports betting, but it is included in the fully legalized states list)
  • Kansas (Note: Kansas has legalized sports betting, but it is included in the fully legalized states list)
  • Nevada (Note: Nevada is included in the fully legalized states list)
  • Ohio (Note: Ohio has legalized sports betting, but it is included in the fully legalized states list)
  • South Dakota (Note: South Dakota is included in the pending legislation list)

The landscape of sports betting in the United States is continually evolving, with more states likely to join the ranks of those offering legal sports betting in the coming years.

legal online sports betting states - FAQs

Is it legal to bet on NFL games online?

Betting on NFL games online is legal in some regions but not in others. In the United States, online sports betting is regulated on a state-by-state basis. States like Nevada, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania have legalized and regulated online sports betting, allowing residents to place bets on NFL games through licensed platforms. However, in states where online sports betting is not legal, engaging in such activities could result in penalties. It's crucial to check your local laws and regulations before participating in online NFL betting to ensure compliance and avoid legal repercussions.

Is Online Poker Legalized for Sports Betting?

The legality of online poker for sports betting varies by jurisdiction. In many countries, online poker is regulated and legal, but sports betting may have different rules. For instance, in the United States, online poker is legal in states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania, but sports betting laws vary state by state. It's crucial to check local regulations to ensure compliance. Always verify the legal status in your area before engaging in online poker or sports betting activities to avoid any legal repercussions.

Is it legal to bet on Super Bowl 2020 online?

Betting on Super Bowl 2020 online is legal in some regions but not in others. In the United States, online sports betting was only legalized in certain states by 2020, such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Nevada. In these states, residents could legally place bets on the Super Bowl through licensed online platforms. However, in states without legalized online sports betting, such activities were considered illegal. It's crucial to check local laws and regulations before engaging in online sports betting to ensure compliance with legal standards.

Is NFL Betting Online Legal in the United States?

NFL betting online in the United States is legal in certain states. As of 2023, states like Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Colorado permit online sports betting, including NFL games. However, the legality varies by state due to differing regulations. Before engaging in online NFL betting, it's crucial to verify the specific laws in your state. Federal laws, such as the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), have been amended, allowing more states to legalize sports betting. Always ensure you use licensed and regulated platforms to bet safely and legally.

Is Online Poker Legalized for Sports Betting?

The legality of online poker for sports betting varies by jurisdiction. In many countries, online poker is regulated and legal, but sports betting may have different rules. For instance, in the United States, online poker is legal in states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania, but sports betting laws vary state by state. It's crucial to check local regulations to ensure compliance. Always verify the legal status in your area before engaging in online poker or sports betting activities to avoid any legal repercussions.

What are the legal aspects of online sports betting in America?

The legal landscape of online sports betting in America is complex and varies by state. As of 2023, over 30 states have legalized some form of sports betting, either online or in-person. The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was overturned in 2018, allowing states to set their own regulations. Key legal aspects include age restrictions (typically 21+), licensing requirements for operators, and compliance with state-specific gambling laws. Additionally, federal laws like the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) still impact online transactions. Bettors should consult local laws and regulations to ensure compliance and understand the legal risks associated with online sports betting.

What are the comprehensive guides to states with legal online sports betting?

For comprehensive guides on states with legal online sports betting, refer to authoritative sources like the American Gaming Association (AGA) and state-specific gaming commissions. These guides provide detailed information on legal frameworks, available platforms, and regulatory requirements. Key states include New Jersey, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Colorado, each offering unique betting experiences. Stay updated with the latest news and legal changes through official websites and reputable news outlets to ensure compliance and informed betting decisions. Always verify the legality of online sports betting in your state before engaging.

Is Online Poker Legalized for Sports Betting?

The legality of online poker for sports betting varies by jurisdiction. In many countries, online poker is regulated and legal, but sports betting may have different rules. For instance, in the United States, online poker is legal in states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania, but sports betting laws vary state by state. It's crucial to check local regulations to ensure compliance. Always verify the legal status in your area before engaging in online poker or sports betting activities to avoid any legal repercussions.

Is Betting on NFL Football Online Legal?

Betting on NFL football online is legal in certain regions, but it depends on local laws and regulations. In the United States, online sports betting is legal in several states, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Nevada, where specific laws have been enacted to regulate and tax online gambling. However, in many other states, online betting remains illegal. Internationally, countries like the UK and Australia have well-established legal frameworks for online sports betting. It's crucial to check your local laws and use licensed, regulated platforms to ensure a safe and legal betting experience.

What are the comprehensive guides to states with legal online sports betting?

For comprehensive guides on states with legal online sports betting, refer to authoritative sources like the American Gaming Association (AGA) and state-specific gaming commissions. These guides provide detailed information on legal frameworks, available platforms, and regulatory requirements. Key states include New Jersey, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Colorado, each offering unique betting experiences. Stay updated with the latest news and legal changes through official websites and reputable news outlets to ensure compliance and informed betting decisions. Always verify the legality of online sports betting in your state before engaging.