[Viral Now] Legalization of Poker Sites in the US: 10 States That Still Consider Online Poker a Gray Area

Generally, laws about gambling are black and white, with no in between. With the rise of internet poker though, some states have yet to adopt laws that specifically address the issue and the reasons for this range from lack of knowledge to lack of enforcement. Below are ten states that still consider online poker a gray area.

California

Online poker is not regulated or legalized in the state, as there are no state laws that outlaw specifically online poker sites. In addition to this, there are no law enforcement officials pursuing those who do partake in playing internet poker.

Alaska

There are no laws specific to playing online poker in the state of Alaska, but overall the state has a vague view on gambling activities. Gambling was totally illegal through the 1990s and then a law had to be enacted to stop mock casino events that raise money for charity.

Hawaii

There are no state laws that specifically prevent those in Hawaii from playing online poker. Historically, residents bet on games during the Makahiki Festival, allowing those not participating to be part of the action. The festival lost popularity in the 1800s, and betting ceased on moral grounds. The laws now mimic the previous guidelines when dealing in online poker or casinos in Hawaii.

Pennsylvania

Gambling was popular up until around the 1920s, and prohibition is rich in the history of poker and gambling in this area. The local authorities did not seem to care much about it, and this trend has continued with the advancement of online poker and gambling.

Georgia

Regulators in the state have never charged anyone with a crime for playing online poker, but in general Georgia is anti-gambling. Those who play poker online continue to do so with no issues. The state has become one of the most anti-gambling territories, which can be seen in the lack of regulation for online poker sites.

Virginia

There are no specific legislation against playing online poker in Virginia at the present time, and history is repeating itself. In the 1600s and then again in the 1800s, the state passed laws restricting gambling, but individuals disobeyed and there was little enforcement of the laws by authorities.

Connecticut

The state attempted to legalize casinos in 1981 after previously legalizing raffles, bazaars, and mock casino nights and becoming one of the first states to hold their own lottery. Online poker is still not specifically legal or illegal, but that could become clear within the foreseeable future.

Colorado

Gambling became illegal in the state and but was not enforced until the early 1900s, so residents continued to gamble at their own will. Online poker is not presently legislated against, making the realm of internet poker and the like a gray area, likely because there are things the industry would rather customers not know.

Maine

Legislators seem to be okay with gambling as a whole, as there are no laws specifically outlawing gambling and online poker. Maine was one of the first states to adopt state lottery, and boasts the horse race tracks as one of the main attractions of the state.

Alabama

It is against the law for a company or individual to operate gambling games within the state of Alabama, but it is not specifically against the law to play online poker in the state. The code does not include information on internet gambling specifically.

Taking part in online gambling and poker can be a great way to blow off steam and maybe win some cash. Unless examined closely, it is difficult to say exactly whether it is totally legal or illegal in any state, and some even still look at it as a gray area. Either way, remember to play responsibly and abide by the laws as they are understood.

The post Legalization of Poker Sites in the US: 10 States That Still Consider Online Poker a Gray Area appeared first on Lifehack.

Source: Lifehack.org