New York State is one of the most heavily regulated gambling markets in the US, boasting an extensive history with gambling that includes horse racing, sports betting, commercial casinos and state lotteries. The New York Gaming Commission serves as an oversight and compliance body for these activities and all online gambling sites that operate within New York State.
Due to New York’s stringent regulatory environment, answering the question “is online gambling legal in New York” isn’t simple. Although New York residents do have access to some regulated and licensed land-based casinos and racetracks that allow gambling, no legal online casino games have yet been introduced for public consumption in this state – yet. But there are signs that New York could soon allow these types of online casino services for its citizens.
Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr introduced a bill during the 2023 legislative session that would authorize New York to license and regulate iGaming operations, including online casinos, by licensing operators with a $2 Million one-time fee for their operations. This proposed legislation currently under consideration by a state Senate committee.
While Pennsylvania doesn’t yet boast any real-money online casinos, its residents do have access to various social gambling websites which provide popular casino games such as blackjack, roulette and slots – plus mobile apps which enable wagers wherever players may be located.
Additionally to social gaming websites in New York State, racinos have begun offering table games featuring live dealers – an encouraging sign for potential online casinos in the state as it means they will attract customers with an array of casino offerings when their sites do launch.
While various factors could determine when New York online casinos will launch, the steady expansion of legal sports betting suggests it will only take time before New York joins states with regulated online casino games. Sports betting’s widespread popularity combined with its revenue-generating potential could convince legislators that this form of gambling should become available to New Yorkers.
New York will likely impose stringent regulations to ensure player safety and security are prioritized when making online casino gaming available within its borders, including age and location verification via geolocation technology. Responsible gambling is also a top concern of New York, so online casinos should have links with local support organizations as part of a responsible gambling plan; additionally, New York Gaming Commission plays an active role in problem gambling prevention measures.