Idaho Online Casinos and Gambling Laws
There are various Idaho online gambling laws you need to follow in order to stay out of trouble. First, gambling both online and in-person is currently illegal in the state. This means that you cannot legally access any online casinos or Fantasy betting sites from within Idaho. The only exception to this is casinos on Tribal Lands, which offer in-person betting options, horse racing betting through pari-mutuel bets, and the Idaho lottery.
Online poker games are also prohibited, including leisurely and amateur poker games. There have been reports of law enforcement targeting even poker games inside Idaho residents’ homes! However, as mentioned before, sweepstakes gambling sites are still an option for players looking to indulge in some online casino action.
These sites operate under a loophole in the law, as they don’t technically offer traditional gambling but instead allow you to use gold coins and sweepstakes coins that can be redeemed for prizes. Social casinos are an excellent online gambling legal option. If you’re found to be illegally partaking in gambling, you could face a fine of up to $1,000 or jail time since it’s a misdemeanor offense according to Chapter 38, 18-3801.
How Does Idaho Regulate Gambling?
There are several bodies that regulate Idaho gambling. These bodies regulate specific types of gambling that are legal in the state, including horse racing and the state lottery. The Idaho Lottery board currently has members who are responsible for overseeing and regulating the state’s lottery. They also issue licensing and regulations for certain charitable games, like bingo and raffles, which are legal as long as they are hosted by a non-profit organization.
The Idaho Horse Racing Commission also plays a role in regulating gambling within the state. This body oversees all aspects of horse racing, including licensing and regulations for tracks and jockeys, as well as approving betting options for races held within the state. In addition, they help regulate the six horse tracks in the state along with online horse betting through advanced deposit wagering. These are the limited forms of gambling that are currently allowed within Idaho. Any other forms of gambling outside of these regulated areas are illegal.
If you’re interested in playing at some of the various Tribal casinos within Idaho, keep in mind that these are not regulated by the state. Indian casinos fall under tribal jurisdiction and operate under their own set of rules and regulations. In Idaho, the National Indian Gambling Commission of the US Interior Department regulates these tribal casinos. Lastly, the National Council on Problem Gambling can help provide resources for responsible gambling.
