Online gambling is a hot topic in the United States. The popularity of sports betting is increasing as more Americans are looking to place bets on their favorite team and sports. While the federal government has yet to legalize this activity, nearly half of the states have already approved this form of gambling.
Illegal Internet gambling is generally defined as using at least part of the internet to place bets, receive bets, or engage in other gambling activities. This type of activity is also prohibited under the Wire Act, which prohibits unlawful gambling on sporting events. Aside from these two federal laws, there are seven other statutes governing the conduct of Internet gambling.
In a December 2002 report, the General Accounting Office (GAO) outlined the various issues associated with internet gambling. These include a potential conflict between state and federal law, and the effect that internet gambling has on interstate commerce. It also discussed whether the Federal Communications Commission has the authority to regulate internet gaming, and how the Travel Act should be interpreted in light of internet gambling.
While online gambling has become a popular pastime, it has not been a common topic of discussion for lawmakers. Although there have been cases that are based on the Commerce Clause and the First Amendment, they have largely stalled. Most lawmakers are interested in legislation that focuses on issues of more direct concern, such as immigration, healthcare, or education. Nevertheless, it is clear that this type of gambling will continue to be an issue in the future.
Several states are already experimenting with sports betting, and more are expected to follow suit in the coming years. Illinois will begin legalizing online casinos in 2023, while Massachusetts may follow suit in early 2023. As of this writing, Iowa has a dozen online sportsbook apps. Most of these apps do not allow for betting on in-state collegiate games. In addition to sportsbooks, the state’s lottery will begin offering limited sports betting options within the next few months.
In order to take advantage of the new law, sportsbooks must be registered with the state’s gaming commission, which will sunset in about two years. Registration is not a prerequisite for sportsbooks that operate on an app, but will be required in person. Some betting options are permitted, including live wagering on certain events, such as the Super Bowl. It is unclear whether the state’s regulations will be amended to include more live betting options.
As of the writing of this article, the only state in the nation that has yet to launch an online gambling venue is Connecticut. A couple of tribal casinos in the state have been licensed to offer gambling operations. In late 2021, however, the state will likely launch a few online casinos. Until then, most Americans will be able to access the Internet to bet on their favorite teams and sports.
Online gambling has not reached the heights of the lottery or other casino games. However, it is expected that more than half of the country will be able to place bets on their favorite sports in the near future.