Online gambling has been a phenomenon for a number of years, but the United States has not reacted quickly to its growth. As early as the 1990s, online gambling sites emerged in an effort to circumvent the laws governing land-based casinos. Since players in the United States could easily access these sites with their credit cards, online gambling was a viable business option for many. In 2006, then-US President George W. Bush signed the Safe Ports Act, which made it illegal for US financial institutions to provide their customers with the option of sending money to offshore gambling sites.
While traveling to a casino is fun, it’s much more convenient and cost-effective to gamble online. While there’s nothing wrong with visiting a casino, gambling online can help you get the feel of the games. You can bet on your favorite sports team or play slots on your phone. And you don’t even need to leave your house! Online casinos provide a variety of banking options, including credit cards, debit cards, and even PayPal.
The legislation to legalize online sports betting and poker in the United States was recently passed in the Kentucky House of Representatives. If passed, it will have to go before the Senate to become law. If approved, Kentucky racetracks would be able to offer in-person wagering on sporting events as well. Meanwhile, a Maine legislative committee has advanced a bill to allow tribal casinos to accept bets online. Commercial casinos are opposed to the measure.
While online casinos are more complex than sports betting sites, they offer a variety of games for players to enjoy. For instance, a typical online casino will allow players to select a variety of “instant” games or download software. Once a player has registered an account, they can begin playing. Winnings and losses are transferred directly to their accounts. They can also withdraw the money they have won, or add money from their bank accounts to their gambling account.
Teens, particularly males, can be highly susceptible to online gambling. While only four percent of teenagers have a gambling problem, 20 percent may be habitual gamblers. Many “free” Internet gambling sites don’t offer any money-back guarantees and age verifications are lax. This makes it easy for young males to access gambling sites without proper supervision and disciplinary action. And, as with any online activity, there are several risks associated with online gambling.
While online gambling is considered to be legal on the federal level, many states have passed legislation restricting it. Some countries, such as the US, have enacted legislation that outlines the various forms of gambling, such as sports betting and horse betting. Other countries, including the European Union, have also made online gambling legal. Currently, there are about 70 countries that allow gambling sites. You’ll find more information on legality in your state.
The US government has more stringent regulations than most other countries when it comes to online gambling. The Federal Act Wire of 1961 prohibits interstate sports wagering, but does not address other forms of gambling. In addition, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 forbids US-based payment processors from participating in online gaming transactions. Because of these stringent laws, most online gaming operators have had to move their operations offshore. The result is a high cost for online gambling.