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Connecticut Poker Laws: Everthing You Need to Know

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If you’re looking to play some poker in Connecticut, it’s important to know the laws of the game. Poker is a popular game, but it’s also one that can be subject to different regulations in different states. In this article, we’ll answer all of your questions about Connecticut Poker Laws and provide a detailed overview of what’s legal and what’s not.

So whether you’re just curious or considering starting up a game with your friends, keep reading for all the information you need!

Connecticut: Poker Laws

Where to play online poker in Connecticut

Looking to play poker in Connecticut? Check out our list of the best Connecticut poker sites!

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Is Online Gambling Illegal In Connecticut?

No, online casinos are not illegal in Connecticut. In fact, they just became legal on October 19, 2021. Along with online poker and both online and retail sports betting, online casinos are now legal in the state. 

The Connecticut House of Representatives and the State Senate approved HB6451 in May 2021, paving the way for online casinos, sportsbooks, and poker rooms to operate in the state. In October 2021, the first two casinos licensed under the new Connecticut online gambling regulations became available.

The Mashantucket Pequot Tribe has a gaming license from the state of Connecticut through FanDuel and NCWIN, while the Mohegan tribe offers a similar service to its clients through FanDuel. The former utilized its well-known logo, while the latter uses a skin based on Mohegan Sun Online Casino in Connecticut.

So if you’re looking to gamble online in the state of Connecticut, you can rest assured that it is now completely legal to do so. So if you’re looking to gamble online poker sites in Connecticut, you’re in luck!

Connecticut Poker and Gambling Laws

Connecticut

Since online gambling was legalized in Connecticut, a few kinks needed to be worked out. The state government sat down with the two Native American tribes located within Connecticut to negotiate taxes and access.

A few months later, online gambling was live throughout the state. If players are 21 years or older, they can legally gamble online. However, they must be located within Connecticut’s borders while accessing the sites. Desktop users have to download a plug-in that shares their location, while mobile users have to enable GPS location on their phones.

Lastly, new customers have to verify their age and identity before they can finish registering on the site. By following these simple guidelines, anyone in Connecticut can safely gamble online. In October 2021, retail sportsbooks will become available in Connecticut and online gambling.

In-person betting on a variety of sports is permitted in select locations throughout the state. Sports Haven in New Haven is one of Connecticut’s largest retail sportsbooks. The Connecticut Lottery Corporation is seeking to boost its presence and enter the retail sports betting market in additional locations.

A Detailed Look at Connecticut’s Gambling Laws

“Gambling” means risking any money, credit, deposit, or any other thing of value for gain contingent in whole or in part upon lot, chance or the operation of a gambling device, including the playing of a casino gambling game such as blackjack, poker, craps, roulette, or a slot machine, but does not include:

Legal contests of skill, speed, strength, or endurance in which awards are made only to entrants or owners of entries; legal business transactions which are valid under the law of contracts; activity legal under the provisions of sections 7-169 to 7-186, inclusive; any lottery or contest conducted by or under the authority of any state of the United States, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or any possession or territory of the United States, and other acts or transactions expressly authorized by law on or after October 1, 1973.” (1)

So you will notice that it not only includes risking money on games of chance where chance plays a role in whole or in part, and poker does rely on chance in part anyway, it also specifically mentions poker as being included in the definition, so that makes it absolutely clear that playing poker for money or anything of value constitutes gambling.

Short History of Gambling in Connecticut

Gambling has been present in Connecticut for a long time. Although it has elements similar to those found in other states, certain touches of flair give the state its own distinct angle. To put it another way, you won’t find another state’s gambling narrative anytime soon.

There are presently several tribal casinos, off-track betting parlors, a state lottery, and various charitable games accessible to play. If you enjoy daily fantasy sports, you may participate as well. Connecticut has a limited land area. Therefore, none of its gaming facilities are too far apart.

Connecticut’s two enormous casinos are located in Bridgeport and Connecticut, attracting players from all around the state. Players from as far as Salisbury or Stamford may be only a few hours away. The distinctions between the various gaming systems are increasingly subtle, no matter where you go; thus, Connecticut residents are not short on interesting gaming choices.

Gambling has a long and varied history in Connecticut.

1939

The first bit of legal gambling came to Connecticut in the form of bingo in 1939. As is often the case, the game’s legality was intended to provide nonprofit organizations with a fundraising opportunity.

Surprisingly, bingo is not included in the list of gambling activities prohibited to those under the age of majority in Connecticut.

1955

Other charitable gambling options followed in the ensuing decades, with raffles gaining acceptance

1972

Nonprofits had the opportunity to host casino nights which continued to 2003 . However, worries from interest groups caused them to be prohibited.

1997

Pull-tabs, known as “sealed tickets were allowed

Today, Connecticut residents can enjoy a wide range of gambling options, from tribal casinos to off-track betting facilities. And with the recent legalization of online gambling, it’s safe to say that the state’s gambling history is still being written.

The Future of Gambling in Connecticut

Many states are facing significant budget shortfalls as the United States continues to grapple with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. To narrow the gap, some states are turning to legalized gambling as a source of revenue.

Connecticut is one of several states considering expanding gambling operations in the coming years. The state already has two successful casinos, Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun, which generate millions of dollars in revenue each year.

However, the expansion of gambling operations will not be without challenges. In addition to addressing concerns about increased crime and addiction, lawmakers will also need to find a way to tax online gambling revenues.

Despite these challenges, it is clear that gambling will play a role in Connecticut’s future. With the right policies in place, the state could use gambling to generate much-needed revenue while also ensuring that the industry is tightly regulated.

Final Thoughts

It’s great to see the market growing, and we’re confident that the state will continue to be a leader in this area. We love seeing more competition in the market, as it leads to better products and services for users.

And, of course, we’ve got the best offshore online gambling sites ready for you. So if you’re looking for the ultimate online betting experience, check out BetOnline and all the other great sites featured above. Thanks for reading!

FAQ

Is Casino Gambling Legal in Connecticut? While casino gambling is legal in Connecticut, there are only two licensed casinos in the state. However, many offshore gambling sites allow CT players to bet on slots, blackjack, roulette, and other casino games. These sites are not subject to US laws and regulations, and they offer a variety of bonuses and promotions. In addition, they provide a safe and secure environment for CT players to gamble online.
When can you Bet Online in Connecticut? If you’re looking to gamble online in Connecticut, you’re in luck. There are a number of excellent online gambling sites that accept players from the state. You can claim sizable bonuses when you sign up, and there are plenty of games to choose from. Whether you’re into slots, table games, or sports betting, you’ll find what you’re looking for at one of the top online casinos in Connecticut.
What’s the Best Online Poker Room in Connecticut? For poker players in Connecticut, Bovada is the best online poker room. New players can receive a $500 welcome bonus, and there are plenty of cash games, major tournaments, and sit-and-go events to choose from. The software is top-notch, and the customer service is responsive and helpful. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time player, you’ll find everything you’re looking for at Bovada.

About the Author

Sadonna Price
Author Sadonna is a mom of two and an avid poker player who also enjoys online casino games. She has been part of the online gambling industry for over a decade, working as a news and blog writer. Sadonna still plays Texas hold’em in her free time while her daily job revolves around providing insights into the online gambling world using her creativity and writing skills.
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