Is Online Slot Gambling Legal in New York?

is online slot gambling legal

Online gambling has been around for decades, but legal online gambling grew up very slowly. The reason for this is that the laws in most states take a long time to catch up with new technology, and so it was with online gambling. The legal environment for online gambling changed dramatically during the 2000s, when online poker sites proliferated and were able to accept millions of dollars worth of wagers every day in an unregulated and unlicensed environment. The growth of these sites coincided with what many call the “poker boom,” a huge resurgence in the popularity of poker, and that fueled the desire for more people to play the game in person and online.

Several states have now legalized online casino games, and more are expected to follow suit in the next few years. Some states have also legalized sports betting, while others may soon offer lotteries as well. But it’s important to keep in mind that while online gambling is legal in most states, it is still illegal in Hawaii and Utah, and it could be a misdemeanor offense to gamble in those states.

The state of New York is a tourist Mecca, and the idea of having the option to gamble from the comfort of home will surely appeal to visitors to the Big Apple. But the city is a little behind the curve on this one, as the state legislature continues to debate whether or not to allow New Yorkers to gamble online.

While real money iGaming is not yet available in New York, it is possible to play for free at social casinos that are legal in the state. These are typically backed by major gambling companies, such as the MGM Resorts-owned BetMGM. To play at these sites, you need to register with an email address, verify your identity, and upload a scan of a government-issued ID.

In addition to the social casinos, it is possible to play for real money at some physical casino websites that are legal in New York. These include the Rivers Casino & Resort, Tioga Downs & Casino, Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway, and Resorts World New York City. In order to make a deposit, you need to verify your identity and provide proof of age with a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.

While New York lawmakers continue to wrestle with the question of legal iGaming, some industry insiders believe that it’s only a matter of time before the state legalizes this form of gambling. However, it’s important to remember that the federal government remains hostile to this kind of development, and the Department of Justice has taken a hardline stance against some types of gambling in recent times. If you’re considering gambling online, it’s always wise to consult a qualified attorney before placing your bets. The Rodriguez Law Group can help you defend yourself against any charges relating to online gambling, so schedule a free consultation today.