Legality Question

[melioris]

I know that states vary, but it seems to be playing out primarily as a federal issue, so does know the exact legality of online poker as player as considered by the Fed? My wife was asking about this (considering some of my accounts are in her name) and the best I could answer is that it is “grey”. Of course the follow-up question was wtf does that mean? I had no satisfactory answer to that question.

I am not trying to get everyone’s panties in a bunch or start mass hysteria, I just want to know if it is considered illegal to play poker online by the US gov.

[eejit101]

dunno the answer.... but why the fuck did someone shoot

has some meaning to this kind of topic

[Kurn]

Historically, gambling laws in the US have punished those running the operation, not the players. For example, when underground poker rooms are raided, the players just walk away (without cashing out, of course, since the chips and money are evidence).

At this point, the UIGEA is a law aimed at financial entities, not players.

[melioris]

right, I understand all this. I am just wondering what the exact legality of online poker, as far as being a participate.

[Talking Poker]

It varies from state to state. I don't believe there is a federal stance on it. Definitely gray. Keep in mind that the IRS will allow you to declare yourself a Professional Gambler if you play poker for a living... that's something, yes?

Disclaimer: I have no idea what I am talking about.

[Reel Deal]

There is no federal law that prohibits an individual from playing poker on-line.

[Kurn]

Washington State may be the only place where online gambling is expressly illegal for the player.

Online gambling has also been illegal in Nevada since there's been online gambling, but I don't know if that pertains to players.