The United States’ gambling laws are incredibly complex, and it’s no surprise that some states ban all forms of gaming while others permit them. While the majority of states regulate real-money online poker and casino games, it’s important to note that these payment processors can’t operate across state lines – so each jurisdiction has the freedom to make its own decisions about which types of digital gaming are permitted.

With that said, the vast majority of US states are gradually warming up to regulated gambling platforms. The industry is a huge economic powerhouse that contributes millions to local tax coffers. This has largely been the driving force behind lawmakers’ lack of enthusiasm to restrict online gaming, especially when it comes to iGaming.

For example, New Jersey has seen massive growth in its iGaming industry since legalizing the practice in 2013, pulling in over $80 million a month for the benefit of residents and local governments. This is why it’s so puzzling that certain states, such as Arizona, Georgia, Missouri, and South Dakota haven’t followed suit yet.

New York, on the other hand, has been a slow-starter in this area as well. But, if its neighbor to the north can get it right, the Big Apple could also join the ranks of states with safe, authorized iGaming options very soon.

It’s not as easy as some politicians would like to think for iGaming to become more widespread in the US, though. Some of the most anti-iGaming legislators in the country have been adamant about protecting traditional casinos, which are able to attract more visitors and therefore generate more tax revenue than online operations.

Despite this resistance, more and more states are starting to show interest in the idea of legalizing online slots. Some, such as Nevada and West Virginia, have already approved iCasino games, while others, such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania, are only allowing real-money poker and sports betting at this time.

The state of Connecticut, for example, recently joined the ranks of iGaming enthusiasts, albeit with some restrictions. Only two operators are currently allowed to offer iCasino games, and they’re both partnered with the state’s two tribal casinos. This means that, unless a bill is passed in the future, players in this state will only be able to enjoy iGaming through social casino apps for now.

Fortunately, the state of California is about to change all that when it comes to iGaming. Lawmakers are planning to pass a bill that will lift the UIGEA’s ban on online gambling, which would allow for the regulation of virtual gaming sites. This will hopefully inspire other states to follow suit, and many believe that the rest of the US will eventually adopt more liberal regulations regarding digital gaming. The Rodriguez Law Group will continue to monitor new developments related to iGaming laws in the US, and we’ll keep you updated as they occur. For more information, please schedule a free consultation with our team of skilled legal professionals.