Online Gambling in the U.S.

Online gambling is a touchy subject in the United States, to say the least. Before joining any online casino, make sure they are based offshore and accept U.S. players. The legalization and regulation of online gambling may be coming to the U.S. In July, the House Financial Services Committee passed Congressman Barney Frank’s Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection, and Enforcement Act of 2009 (H.R. 2267). The bill aims to legalize and regulate online poker and other forms of online gambling. It would effectively eliminate the UIGEA (Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act). Many states are currently in a budget crisis and are considering legalizing forms of online gambling on the state level to combat the deficit.

More than 70 countries have legalized gambling such as Australia, New Zealand, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, South Korea and Canada. There are pros and cons to legalization and regulation in the U.S. You would be more protected from crooked online casinos trying to steal your identity and money. But, there may be less casinos to choose from if they must be licensed. Also, offshore casinos won’t be happy about the taxes and fees they would have to pay for the American audience.

This isn’t to say Americans don’t gamble online. There are plenty of reputable online casinos based offshore that accept U.S. players through alternative online payment methods other than VISA, which stopped accepting payments. Other payment methods include check and wire transfers, electronic money services, etc. These online casinos provide the same service and include the same games, bonuses and promotions comparable to anywhere else in the world.

The watchdog for U.S. online casinos is eCOGRA (e-Commerce and Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance). Established in 2002 as a non-profit by Microgaming and 888.com, it reviews hundreds of gambling sites for fairness and security. It serves as a liaison between players and casinos. Look for the eCOGRA Safe and Fair seal before signing up for an account.