Online poker is an addictive game that requires a lot of skill, tact and mental fortitude to win. It is also considered a form of gambling, as luck plays a large role in whether or not you will come out on top of a hand. Many people have weighed in on the question of whether or not poker is a game of chance or skill, with both sides having valid arguments. We will update this page as we see major developments regarding the legal status of online poker in the United States and around the world.
Despite the fact that a number of countries have made regulated online poker available to their citizens, the United States is still struggling to get this market off the ground. The reason for this is primarily the Federal Wire Act, which has stopped several reputable sites from accepting deposits and payments in the United States. The Act has been challenged in the Supreme Court and a favorable ruling could open the door to regulated online poker in the United States in the near future.
While there is not a whole lot of optimism for the future of online poker in the United States, it should be noted that there are a few states that have passed laws making it legal to play regulated poker within their borders. Currently Nevada, New Jersey, Delaware and Pennsylvania all offer regulated online poker sites. Michigan and West Virginia are in the process of making regulated poker legal, as well.
Players who live in a state where regulated poker is not available can either sign up for a casino account and play onsite, or they can play on offshore websites that have licenses from the proper jurisdictions. These offshore sites are often very reliable, offering fair games and a great overall experience for players. Some of these sites even have a mobile app, so players can play on the go.
As for the future of regulated online poker in the United States, it is likely that more states will pass legislation allowing for it. This is a good thing, as it will increase the pool of players and help to make online poker more profitable. The only real hang-up that remains is the Federal Wire Act, which must be resolved in order for regulated poker to become legal.
In the meantime, we encourage you to check out our individual state law reviews for more information on how online poker works in your area. Our comprehensive reviews will give you a full breakdown of the specifics of your state’s poker laws, including any existing prohibitions on online gaming and a description of regulated sites that operate in your state. This is the best way to stay up-to-date on what is happening in your home state and which sites are a good choice for you. Thanks for reading! We look forward to seeing you on the tables soon. Until then, good luck and happy betting!