The path for legal online gambling in the United States has been long and winding. But the latest wave of state lawmakers is finally approving real-money casino games and poker, with New Jersey and Pennsylvania leading the way. Now, West Virginia has joined them and is allowing players to enjoy safe authorized iGaming at sites like DraftKings and BetMGM, which will be available in the state’s main brick-and-mortar casinos. The influx of cash into state coffers is certainly helping to convince legislators that these games aren’t as “socially ill” as some fear, and that they can provide a much needed boost to local economies.
However, despite the growing acceptance of these online gaming offerings at the state level, federal-level lawmakers are still slamming on the brakes to any movement toward new laws. Centuries of anti-gambling aversion remain entrenched, and lawmakers have been hesitant to approve casino games without the backing of their constituents.
In addition, several major federal statutes – including the Wire Act and other sports betting regulations – have been obstacles to any movement on this front. While a number of senators and congressmen have introduced bills that would better define these provisions, they’ve been met with resistance on Capitol Hill and there’s no sign of any major legislative action in the near future.
The only real hope for any change in the current federal situation is at the state level. New York lawmakers have made no secret of their intentions to legalize iGaming once they see how successful sports betting has been in the state. And with New Yorkers already enjoying a wide range of casino games and poker options at land-based casinos, it seems as though iGaming is poised to be the next big thing in the state.
While the current situation is frustrating for those who wish to gamble legally on their favorite casino games, there are many ways to circumvent these hurdles. For example, players can access regulated online casinos by using a VPN to mask their IP address. And there are a number of international gambling companies that offer services to US residents, although it is important for players to note that these unregulated sites run the risk of breaking federal law.
A good way to find the right casino is by reading reviews of casinos, which will include information about game selections, software providers and security measures. Additionally, players should look for a valid gambling regulator seal on the website to ensure that they’re dealing with a legitimate site. This will help protect them against any potential scams and shady operators. If a website doesn’t display this seal, then it’s best to avoid it at all costs. For more information on legal online slot gambling, check out our state-by-state guide. This will help you choose the best place to play for your preferred genre of casino games.