While online sports betting is now legal in more than 30 states, online casino gambling has taken a little longer to make its way into the mainstream. That being said, we’re beginning to see more signs that some states are considering allowing players to wager on online slots and other games in the future.
Each state has its own laws that dictate what types of gambling it allows within its borders, how the gambling can take place and who may gamble. For example, in New Jersey, a person can buy lottery tickets or bet on horse races at the age of 18, but they cannot play at an online slot machine until they are 21 years old.
The federal government, however, has a different set of laws that governs gaming. One of these laws, the Interstate Wire Act of 1961, has long been a major hurdle for those seeking to offer real-money online gambling services in the United States. While a recent court decision has reinterpreted this law and opened the door for online sports betting, many other forms of gambling are still prohibited in the United States by this statute.
Despite these restrictions, some players have found ways to gamble legally on online slots and other games. Unlicensed, unregulated operators are known for offering low standards of game fairness and lax account security. In addition, they can often be difficult to contact if you have a problem with your account or a particular game.
If you’re thinking of trying out some online slots, we recommend playing for free first before risking your money. This way, you can get a feel for the site and decide if it’s right for you. It’s also a good idea to avoid sites that claim to operate in a “grey area,” as these operations are likely breaking state and federal gambling laws.
New Jersey has seen a lot of success with its regulated online casinos. Its sports betting initiative has shown that gambling does not have to be a social ill, and lawmakers are now receptive to the idea of extending this gambling opportunity to other types of online games.
Massachusetts is another state that could soon add online casino gambling to its list of legal activities. While the state’s governor has remained opposed to this idea in the past, her new leadership team is more open to the possibility of making it happen.
Other states, such as Maine and Kentucky, are also in the early stages of considering legalized online casino games. They are waiting to see how the launch of their sports betting market goes before deciding whether or not to pursue this option. In the meantime, residents of these states can enjoy sweepstakes casinos, which allow them to wager for cash prizes without requiring any actual money. This is a great alternative for those looking to experience the thrill of playing real money casino games.