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Missouri Poker Laws: Everything You Need to Know

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Missouri Poker Laws

If you’re a Missouri resident who loves to play poker, you may wonder if it’s legal to do so in your state. Luckily, playing poker is not only legal in Missouri, but there are also a few great options for where to play!

This article will explain everything you need to know about the Missouri Poker Laws, including what games are allowed and where you can play them. So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, please keep reading for all the details on how to enjoy some Texas Hold ’em action in The Show-Me State!

Where to Play Online Poker in Missouri

Although online poker is not currently regulated in Missouri, there are still several ways to play online poker legally. The most popular option is to join one of the many online poker sites that accept players from Missouri. These sites are located outside the United States and are not subject to US laws. As a result, they can offer real-money online poker games to players from all over the world, including Missouri.

Another option for playing online poker in Missouri is to join a private club or home game. These games are typically run by friends or family members and are not open to the public. Finally, another option for playing online poker in Missouri is participating in a free-play tournament. Some online poker sites in US offer these tournaments and do not require any real money to play. However, they can still be a great way to learn the game and practice your skills.

Whether you play online poker at an online site, in a private game, or a free-play tournament, there are plenty of options available for playing online poker in Missouri.

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Is Online Gambling Illegal in Missouri?

Online gambling is a popular activity among Missouri residents. Though the state does not have any laws explicitly prohibiting online gambling, some restrictions exist. For example, operating an online gambling site within Missouri’s borders is illegal. Additionally, it is against the law to knowingly accept payments from Missouri residents for online gambling.

However, there are no penalties for individual Missouri residents who choose to gamble online. As such, many residents do so without any fear of legal repercussions. Given the lack of clarity in Missouri’s laws, it is advisable for anyone considering participating in online gambling to research the risks involved before doing so.

Missouri Poker and Gambling Laws

Missouri

Missouri poker players need not worry about the law: Missouri gambling laws are very player-friendly. Missouri allows both live and online poker, as well as all other casino games. Missouri also has several large poker tournaments with significant prize pools. The only requirement is that players be at least 21 years of age.

Missouri gambling laws also allow for social gambling, as long as no one benefits from organizing the game. In short, Missouri is an excellent state for poker players and gamblers of all stripes. So come on and enjoy some of the best gambling Missouri offers!

A Detailed Look at Missouri Gambling Laws

To understand the gambling crime in Missouri, we first need to look at the definitions. So let’s start with their portrayal of gambling:

“A person engages in “gambling” when he stakes or risks something of value upon the outcome of a contest of chance or a future contingent event not under his control or influence, upon an agreement or understanding that he will receive something of value in the event of a certain outcome.” 

  1. So one of the keys here is the part about not being under his control or influence, which has been interpreted as having any element of chance. Playing poker would not be entirely under one’s control or influence, as the way the cards land affect the outcome of the bet in a material form. For instance, betting on an arm wrestling contest would be an example of a chance being under one’s control, as long as the betting was limited to the participants. The outcome would not be under their control if another party were involved. In case further clarification is needed, the statute does also define “contest of chance,” which “means any contest, game, gaming scheme or gaming device in which the outcome depends in a material degree upon an element of chance, notwithstanding that the skill of the contestants may also be a factor therein.”
  2. So once again, poker does depend to a material degree upon chance, regardless of the element of skill present, so it does fall within the definition of gambling in Missouri. So with that out of the way, it now becomes straightforward: “A person commits the crime of gambling if he knowingly engages in gambling.”
  3. It is a more serious offense if the gambling is committed by a “professional player,” defined as deriving at least 20% of one’s income for one year over the past five years from gambling, in which the charge is upgraded from a misdemeanor to a felony.

So the law in Missouri targets players, although no online poker player has yet been charged with this offense. This has not been the case anywhere in the United States. Anti-gambling enforcement continues to be focused on public gambling, although in many states, such as Missouri, any unauthorized gambling may be an offense.

Minnesota Gambling Law Resources

Short History of Gambling in Mississippi 

Mississippi has a long and storied history with gambling. The first recorded gambling instance in the state occurred in 1702 when French settlers placed bets on a horse race. Over the next century, gambling became increasingly popular, with games of chance being held at social gatherings and even in some churches.

In 1820, the state passed its first law outlawing gambling, but it was quickly repealed due to public outcry.

In 1832, gambling was again banned, and the ban remained in place for over 50 years. It wasn’t until 1990 that casino gambling was finally legalized in Mississippi. Since then, the industry has continued to grow, with several significant casinos now operating in the state.

Mississippi’s history with gambling is long and complex, but it’s clear that gambling has always been an essential part of the state’s culture.

The Future of Gambling in Mississippi

Gambling has been a popular pastime in Mississippi for many years. The state is home to several casinos, and residents often travel to Las Vegas or other gambling meccas for a chance to win big. However, the future of gambling in Mississippi is uncertain. A recent Supreme Court ruling has paved the way for states to legalize sports betting, and many believe this will lead to increased gambling addiction and other problems.

Casinos are also struggling to compete with online gambling sites, which are becoming more popular worldwide. Only time will tell what the future of gambling in Mississippi will look like, but it is sure to be an exciting story.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, online poker in Missouri is a complicated issue. There are a variety of arguments for and against the legalization of online poker, and it remains to be seen how the state will ultimately decide to proceed. However, one thing is clear: online poker is here to stay, and it is likely that Missouri will eventually join the growing list of states that have legalized the game.

Whether this happens sooner or later remains to be seen, but it seems inevitable that online poker will eventually be available to Missouri residents and with a lot of reputable online poker sites to choose from.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Online Poker Legal in Missouri? The long answer is a little more complicated. Online poker is not explicitly legal or illegal in Missouri. However, the state does have laws against gambling, and poker is considered a form of gambling. Therefore, online poker is technically illegal in Missouri. That said, no one has ever been charged with a crime for playing online poker in the state, and it is unlikely that anyone ever will be.
Are Sports Betting Legal in Missouri? No, sports betting is not currently legal in Missouri. However, this may change in the future. A recent Supreme Court ruling has paved the way for states to legalize sports betting, and many believe that Missouri will eventually take this step.
What is the Legal Age for Gambling in Missouri? The legal age for gambling in Missouri is 21. This applies to all forms of gambling, including casino gambling, lottery, and sports betting.
What are other Forms of Gambling Legal in Missouri? Missouri offers various gambling options, including casino gambling, lottery, and horse racing. Charitable gambling is also legal in the state.

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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