History and Rules About the Idaho Gambling Laws
Compared to the betting regulations imposed in other states, the Idaho gambling laws are considered quite stern. Residents of the state are not presented with many options when it comes to betting. To avoid any potential legal problems, we recommend you read our thorough analysis to learn all vital information with respect to the state’s gambling legislation.
What Are the Idaho Gambling Laws?
Idaho is definitely not the best state for betting devotees. The reason being is that the permitted activities residents of the state are legally allowed to participate in are quite a few. In the following sections, we will list them all. Additionally, if you continue reading our overview, you will learn more about the gambling history in the US state, and you’ll get familiar with all details regarding the Idaho gambling laws you should be aware of as a potential player there.
History of the Idaho Gambling Laws
Gambling was never prominent within the state of Idaho. Nonetheless, there were times when slot machines were legal, and bettors could try out their luck with them. In 1947, after their legalization, slots were immensely popular. That continued for a few years until they got banned in 1953 by the Idaho Supreme Court.
In 1963 the Idaho State Racing Commission was founded, and pari-mutuel betting became a legal gambling activity residents of the state were able to engage in. Betting on horse racing is still immensely popular in the state, and at present, there are eight racetracks in total. In the next couple of years, people were not presented with any further options when it came to gambling.
In 1988, however, the bill offering the foundation of the Idaho Lottery got approved. It is part of the Multi-State Lottery Association, which means that people of legal age are presented with numerous options when it comes to lottery games. Tickets and scratch cards can be bought from places such as gas stations, convenience stores, and so on.
A few years later, several tribes tried to negotiate with the authorities on the legalization of Class III games. This category includes poker, blackjack, baccarat, slots, etc. However, this did not happen. Instead, a few tribal casinos opened their doors in Idaho and the only gambling options visitors were presented with was bingo. In 2002, the Idaho State-Tribal Gambling Compact Initiative got approved. The proved legalized the provision of video gaming machines that were not exactly slots, but they surely did resemble them.
In 2011, simulcast betting became legal, as well. Put differently, people were not restricted to betting on horse races only from the respective racetrack. At present, eight such facilities hold a license issued by the Idaho State Racing Commission. Although instant simulcast betting machines were introduced, as well, they quickly went out of the market since legislators believed they strongly mimicked slots.
What Activities Can Bettors Participate In?
As you have probably figured out already by the paragraphs given above, citizens of Idaho are not offered many opportunities when it comes to gambling. At present, they can only bet on horse racing at racetracks or simulcast betting facilities. Additionally, they may engage in a game of bingo at one of the tribal casinos offering such halls.
The Idaho gambling laws surely are restrictive, and the state is considered one of the most unfavorable places for gamblers. Even though people who are 18 or older may buy lottery tickets from the Idaho Lottery, that’s definitely non-satisfactory to those who enjoy playing casino games. It’s far from surprising that Idaho residents cannot join US online casinos.
However, those who wish, may register on offshore betting platforms. Experts recommend players avoid such platforms due to the fact that their consumer protection is not guaranteed. If they encounter any problems, they won’t be able to seek assistance from the Idaho authorities. In other words, joining an offshore platform is at a player’s own risk.
Will the Idaho Gambling Laws Change Soon?
Even though gambling devotees living in the state hope that the Idaho gambling laws will become less severe in the near future, there still isn’t any data supporting this. Considering that the regulations banned slots and instant horse racing machines, after they were approved by voters, shows that gambling in Idaho is still considered hazardous and inappropriate for individuals.
Commonly Asked Questions
We hope you’ve managed to find an answer to any question you may have had with respect to the current Idaho gambling laws. In the next paragraphs, we will deliver information about a few more inquiries we believe are quite important to those who consider gambling in the state.
1️⃣ Do the Idaho gambling laws allow residents to bet online?
Unfortunately, people residing in Idaho are not permitted to register or lay bets on any websites in the US. Online gambling in Idaho is strictly prohibited, and individuals can only join offshore betting websites. However, this is often associated with many potential risks.
2️⃣ Are the Idaho gambling laws considered fair by gamblers?
The majority of active bettors residing in the state do not favor the the Idaho gambling laws. The reason being is that the number of legal gambling activities is minimal. People can only bet on horse racing and bingo. Plus, they can buy lottery tickets and scratch cards, as well.
3️⃣ When was betting on horse racing legalized in Idaho?
According to the history of gambling in Idaho, Pari-mutuel wagering was legalized in 1963 with the establishment of the Idaho State Racing Commission. At first, people were only allowed to bet at the racetracks where the respective event was taking place. In the following years, however, simulcast betting became legal, as well.
4️⃣ Will the Idaho gambling laws legalize online casino play?
Thousands of individuals cross their fingers in the hope of online gambling becoming legal in the state of Idaho. Sadly, however, many are certain that the future of the Idaho gambling laws does not seem bright for bettors.
5️⃣ Which US states have less restrictive regulations when it comes to gambling?
As you know, every US state has different gambling laws. Since Idaho is not considered a gamblers-friendly state, we may surely conclude that there are other places with regulations that are not so tight. Michigan and Arkansas, for instance, permit individuals to not only play casino games at physical gambling houses but also to engage in online betting.