Over the past few years the rise in gambling has been huge, as more and more states begin to legislate an online offering. Unlike in the UK, or across the rest of Europe, gambling is a little more complex, with it completely legal in some states, partially in others and completely illegal in many too.

That can make deciding to play a game of bingo rather confusing. 

Below you’ll find all you need to know about how bingo sites can operate in the USA and the regulations in place for them…

How Is Bingo Regulated In The USA?

For large sections of the USA, gambling is heavily restricted with 10 states completely banning gambling all together, meaning no cash games of bingo are possible. 

From there on in though, every state creates their own gambling laws, with the sites and brick-and-mortar outlets requiring a license from each specific state. They will have their own regulations and legislation brands must follow and players are only able to play if they are of legal gambling age in the state and within state boundaries.

This has only been the case in the last decade, with the Wire Act previously prohibiting gambling activities. That came into play in 1961 and it wasn’t until 2011 when online bingo became decriminalised. 

Now it is up to a particular state as to whether the game is legal.

Which States Have Legalised Online Bingo?

At present only a handful of states have legalised online gambling, meaning bingo games are also available at only a few. 

New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia have all completely legalised online gambling, allowing people to play online casino as well as bingo, sports betting and more, while Delaware and Nevada has, although in the case of the latter it is online poker only that has been legalised.

States Which Have Legalised Online Bingo/Gambling:

• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania
• West Virginia
• Delaware

Which States Do Not Allow Gambling?

As mentioned, there are a number of states which have completely outlawed online gambling as a whole, with no cash games of bingo playable.

There are currently no signs of this changing at present, although the news is ever-changing as the landscape of gambling in the country evolves.

The states in which currently haven’t legalized any online gambling are:

• Illinois
• Louisiana
• Indiana
• Michigan
• Oregon
• New York
• South Dakota
• Wisconsin
• Washington

Where Should I Play Online Bingo In A State?

You should only play bingo online in the USA if the state has legalised it and you are of legal gambling age.

Bingo sites must be licensed by the state, so you should only play with brands that have such licenses. These will be clearly displayed on the bingo site, while it’s always worth looking online for reviews to ensure you are playing with a reputable brand.

As online gambling in the USA is forever changing, keeping abreast of the latest news is always a good idea, particularly as more and more begin to start passing bills and setting the wheels in motion for online bingo and gambling as a whole.